Annotations or Margin Notes

One way you can increase your reading efficiency and retention is by writing brief notes in the margins of your textbooks.  These are called annotations or margin notes.  They are short, maybe just a few key words, and summarize the important information contained in a paragraph or section. 

By using this strategy while you read, you are becoming a much more active reader.  This will result in higher comprehension and retention. 

Here is what to do:

1.         Read the paragraph or section.

2.       Think about what is the important information you need to remember.

3.       Condense that information into a few key words.

4.       Write the words in the margin of the page near where you found the information.

There are other ways you can mark your pages:

1.       Write numbers beside where items are listed.

2.       Write "def" beside where an important word is defined.

3.       Draw a small concept map or chart in a white space to help you understand something.

Keep in mind that this is a new way to read and may be uncomfortable at first.  But isn't any change uncomfortable?  Give it time and you will wonder how you ever read without a pen or pencil in your hand!

By using this strategy you are ensuring that you will be actively involved with the information and doing much more than simply letting the words run through your mind.