Efficient reading

Awareness

Don't treat all the books you read as the same thing.

Be aware of the type of material you are reading.

You may need to skim-read to establish the type of book.

Do this quickly, and then adjust your type of reading to suit.

Adapt

The way you read should be adjusted for the type of book.

Don't start reading until you have decided if the book is suitable.

Don't dwell on the writing if you are searching for a piece of information.

When it is necessary, switch your style of reading to suit the task.

Purpose

Decide the reason for reading the book before you begin.

Keep reminding yourself of the reason whilst you are reading.

The study task should be alive in your mind.

Be prepared to concentrate and take notes.

Selection

Choose your reading material carefully.

Choose the type of book(s) which will be of most use to you.

When starting a new subject, read beginner's books.

A quick review of the main points will help to understand the subject.

Switching

Switch from one way of reading to another when it's necessary.

This is very useful when selecting books or doing research for a project.

This skill is probably the second most useful after close reading.

It shows that you understand what you are doing.