Smart reading is a skill that students develop through using a set of robust strategies in their reading and analyzing of texts. I am not talking here about critical reading or close reading (though both of these types can be part of smart reading), smart reading is about knowing what to read, when to read , and how to read it.
Smart reading is a holistic kind of practice that integrates other key reading skills such as skimming and scanning. In this wonderful visual from Learning Commons (University of British Columbia) are featured some useful strategies students can use to improve their reading competencies and become better and smart readers. These strategies include:
- Skim and take notes rather than read every single word
- Identify your reading priorities
- Dig for deeper understanding of concepts and arguments rather than just propositional knowledge
- Assign enough time for your readings.
