Determining the main idea helps the reader comprehend the author’s main point in each passage. In textbooks, the main idea is found in the first sentence of each section; however, fiction requires readers to interpret the author’s message and search for supporting evidence. Some texts include a thesis statement, a claim made by the author. Searching for statements that defend his claim are supporting ideas. Selectively highlighting is useful in understanding how certain details relate to the main point.
Summarizing the reading allows you to strip away non-essential information and simply focus on crucial details. In this strategy, remembering key words and phrases is important. Reading a fiction from another period often requires summarization after each paragraph. Books written in Standard English entail summarizing chapters. If you struggle to recall basic facts, rereading is recommended. Draw inferences, attempt to read between the lines, and relate subsequent excerpts to previously read information. Sometimes authors provide hints and it’s up to the reader to interpret. Summaries may also answer who, what, where, when, why, and how.
Relate to the book through past experiences or any previously acquired knowledge on the topic. Interact with text by asking questions about the ideas presented, characters, contradictions, and anything that comes to mind, followed with searching for clues that lead to an answer. Review and evaluate the book. Explain your conclusion with supporting ideas from the book. Visualize the images being described by pretending you’re create a picture or film in your mind. Reread complicated passages out loud. Look up and understand unknown vocabulary.
A person’s attitude during a read can affect the amount of information absorbed. Determine the purpose for reading and commit to completing the task. Common reasons to read are to acquire knowledge, for entertainment or an assignment. Create a reading schedule to stay motivated.