SQ4R reading method for improving comprehension and grades

The SQ4R reading method improves both comprehension and grades.

• Survey
• Question
• Read
• Recite
• Relate
• Review

Survey

Before you read the chapter, to get an overview of what lies ahead, survey:

• The title, headings, and subheadings.
• Captions under pictures, charts, graphs or maps.
• Review questions or teacher-made study guides.
• Introductory and concluding paragraphs.
• The summary.

Question

As you survey:

• Turn the title, headings, and/or subheadings into questions.
• Read questions at the end of the chapters or after each subheading.
• Ask yourself, “What did my instructor say about this chapter or subject when it was assigned?”
• Ask yourself, “What do I already know about this subject?”
  • As an example, the heading “Stages of Sleep” might lead you to ask:
    • “Is there more than one stage of sleep?”
    • “What are they?”
    • “How do they differ?”

Asking questions helps you read with a purpose. (If it is helpful to you, write out these questions for consideration. This variation is called SQW4R.)

Read

• Look for answers to the questions you first raised.
• Answer questions at the beginning or end of chapters or study guides.
• Reread captions under pictures, graphs, etc.
• Note all the underlined, italicized, bold printed words or phrases.
• Study graphic aids.
• Reduce your speed for difficult passages.
• Stop and reread parts which are not clear.
• Read only a section at a time and recite after each section.

Recite

After you’ve read a section:

• Orally ask yourself questions about what you have just read (alternatively, summarize, in your own words, what you read).
• Take notes from the text, writing the information in your own words.
• Underline/highlight important points you’ve just read.
• Use the method of recitation that best suits your particular learning style.
• Remember to look for answers as you read and to recite or take notes before moving on.
• Recite key terms and concepts.

Relate

• It is easier to remember ideas that are personally meaningful.
• When you study a chapter, try to link new facts, terms, and concepts with information you already know.

Review

• When you’re done reading, skim back over the chapter, or read your notes. Then check your memory by reciting and quizzing yourself again.
• Make frequent review a key part of your study habits.

Another version of the SQ4R method

Adapted from West Virginia University at Parkersburg by Karen Kimmel for the Gallaudet University English Department