How to Read Better
Jared Henderson・2 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.
