: Determine the Topic (main idea), Scope (specific focus), and Purpose (e.g., to argue, explain, or advocate).
If you are reviewing passages specifically for exams like the SAT, GRE, or MCAT, use these targeted techniques:
: Use a scratchpad to jot down the Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How to create a quick skeleton of the text.
: Restate difficult sentences or paragraphs in your own words to ensure deep comprehension.
“Having to explain something to someone else not only solidifies your own knowledge, but helps you see where you might be weak.” The Princeton Review
“If you try to approach the passages being really interested in, even fascinated by, the topic at hand, then you'll be able to speed up your reading and improve your retention.” PrepScholar · 9 years ago