How to Study: Tip #5: 20 Steps to Reading a Textbook (Language of Mathematics #161)

Table of Contents: Language of Mathematics and Math in Real Life

20 Steps to Reading a Textbook

1. Familiarize yourself with the Table of Contents.
2. Use the Index to navigate the book.
3. Scan Footnotes.
4. Read the Introduction/Preface/Conclusion.
5. Know what's in the Appendix.
6. Read the Titles/Subtitles/Headers.
7. Read and learn from the Examples.
8. Read/understand Bold/Italic/Highlighted text.
9. Spend time understanding graphics/visuals.
10. Make note of formulas that are numbered.
11. Check your work as you do it (one at a time).
12. Read/review everything in the side columns.
13. Always read first & last paragraphs of sections.
14. Read first sentence of every paragraph.
15. Read last/middle sentences of large paragraphs.
16. Read the text before and after a formula.
17. Read new concepts in detail, i.e., take your time.
18. Read introduction and conclusion of chapters.
19. If you need to, highlight/take notes in the textbook.
20. Enjoy it. Savor it. Cherish the opportunity to read.