Active reading means thinking while reading. Most textbooks and scientific articles are not written as novels that can absorb you in their world and story. Because of this, you need to immerse yourself in the reading and not expect it to draw you in. You will find much beauty and interest once you are stuck in a reading yourself, however.
- Find the structure of the argument. Without understanding the shape of the paper and what the author is trying to say, you will not be able to understand how each sentence and paragraph fits. If it helps, make a flowchart of the argument.
- Constantly write down your thoughts. Big or small – nobody is going to read them, but reflect and note the thoughts, the ideas, and the questions you have.
- Write a brief reflection. When you are done reading any significant portion, write (without copying) a summary of the argument or material, and how it relates to previous content. You will quickly find out which parts made sense and which did not.
- Don’t be afraid of not understanding. These topics are hard (there is a reason you need a Ph.D. to contribute to them). You will get it. It’s our job as instructors to help you with this.