Some suggestions on how to read critical literature:

• If the material is online, consider printing it out. Unless you have a Kindle (or similar device)
set up to your satisfaction, printed matter is less tiring on the eyes, and allows you to
annotate more easily. Or you may be happy to use highlights on a Kindle reader, which
allows colour coding and downloadable notes. Have a notebook or notetaking app open as
you read.

• Look at how much you have to read by scrolling through or quickly turning the pages. Is it a
chapter, or a very long or short extract?

• Read the introductory paragraph quite carefully.

• Turn to the end and read the concluding section – a paragraph or paragraphs. If parts of the
conclusion’s claims surprise you, or intrigue you, you know to look out for where the
concluding assertions are worked out and substantiated while you’re reading through the
body of the piece. Maybe jot down one or two words to jog your memory.

• Skim read through the piece quickly. Underline or highlight things of interest that you want
to return to, or make quick marginal notes.

• Read through more thoroughly. But if you’re reading for a particular purpose, head straight
to the sections of interest now you know where they are. Make notes as you go. Don’t
hesitate to write on physical books you own – really own the text and engage with it.

• Not all texts will make sense at first, but concentrate on paragraphs that interest you or you
find difficult and try to paraphrase them.

• If you have time, a final read of the whole thing or sections of interest may give a deeper
understanding.

• Finally, write a paragraph summing the main points including your evaluation of the piece.
This is for your own use and will better fix it in your memory. Keep a record of such reading
in a critical reading log. You can also use these on the weekly forums!