How to Read Better

Jared Henderson15 minutes read

Reading challenging books like classics and philosophy requires dedication and personal growth, with quality over quantity emphasized, akin to mental exercise. Developing a reading plan based on personal goals and interests, carrying books at all times, and engaging actively with texts are crucial for becoming a better reader and fostering a consistent reading habit.

Insights

  • The process of becoming a better reader involves prioritizing quality over quantity, emphasizing deep engagement with a single book, likening reading to a mental exercise that requires gradual practice and intensity building.
  • Revisiting books, especially non-fiction, taking light and intentional notes, and selecting the right books based on personal interests are crucial steps in enhancing reading skills, fostering personal growth, and shaping a coherent reading journey that reflects one's aspirations and goals.

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Recent questions

  • How can I become a better reader?

    By dedicating time to quality reading, engaging deeply with texts, and practicing consistently.

  • Why is it important to read challenging books?

    Reading challenging books enhances reading skills and fosters personal growth.

  • How can I choose the right books to read?

    Select books based on personal interests, topics, authors, and genres for a coherent reading journey.

  • Why is it recommended to read books more than once?

    Reading books more than once aids in grasping the author's intentions and understanding the holistic message of the work.

  • How can taking notes while reading improve understanding?

    Taking light and intentional notes aids in comprehension and facilitates revisiting the book for deeper understanding.

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Summary

00:00

"Journey to Better Reading: Quality Over Quantity"

  • Many individuals aspire to read challenging books, such as classics, philosophy, serious non-fiction, or literary works, to enhance their reading skills.
  • The journey to becoming a better reader involves years of dedication, education, work, and personal growth.
  • Quality of reading is prioritized over quantity, with deep engagement in a single book valued more than superficially skimming through numerous texts.
  • Reading is likened to exercise, requiring the development and training of mental faculties through gradual practice and intensity building.
  • Reading books more than once, especially non-fiction, is recommended to grasp the author's intentions and the holistic message of the work.
  • Taking notes while reading should be done lightly and intentionally, with a focus on relevant passages and concise annotations to aid in understanding during subsequent reads.
  • Selecting the right books is crucial, with considerations like personal interests, specific topics, authors, or genres guiding book choices to ensure a coherent reading journey.
  • Crafting a reading plan based on personal goals and interests helps shape the kind of reader one aspires to be, reflecting on the moral and self-formative aspects of reading choices.
  • Carrying a book, Kindle, or audiobook at all times facilitates finding moments throughout the day to read, such as during breaks or before bedtime, fostering a consistent reading habit.
  • Consistent practice, intentional reading choices, and active engagement with texts are key elements in the journey to becoming a better reader, emphasizing quality over quantity and personal growth through reading.

14:46

"Develop skills by reading habitually with purpose"

  • Reading regularly will make it a habit, improving your skills.
  • Choose a good book for a specific reason and keep it with you.
  • Carry a pencil to take notes and be ready to revisit the book.
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