How to Read the Text

How Should You Read Your Textbook?

When you read a textbook, don't expect to be bored. Expectations are usually met. Instead, think about why you are reading, and what the author is trying to get across to you.
Read sitting at a desk with your feet on the floor. Have a good light source above your head. Turn off the television, the music, the instant messenger, the computer.
Believe it or not, a very fine professor of mine used to swear that crossing our legs at the ankles increased concentration. It can't hurt!
Read in blocks of information. Read all of one section at a time. Don't stop in the middle.
You probably won't be able to read an entire chapter at a time.
Read the first time through for comprehension. Make sure you understand everything--especially cause and effect.
Take notes on what is important--but take notes topically. Devote a section of your notebook to civil rights, another to politics, another to social history, etc.
The second time through, you should skim. Remind yourself of the big picture. Look for links among topics, and links across time. Cause and effect is still important.
Write out any questions you may have. Bring those you cannot answer yourself to class.

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY----READ EVERY DAY.