Strategy: The "Two-Column Note-Taking" Method
How It Works:
1. Divide Your Paper: Draw a vertical line down the middle of your paper, creating two columns.
2. Left Column: In the left column, write down key points, concepts, or quotes from the text. These should be concise and focused.
3. Right Column: In the right column, write down your reactions, questions, connections, or insights related to the material in the left column. This is where you actively engage with the text.
Example with a Text Excerpt:
Text Excerpt:
> "The true alchemists do not change lead into gold; they change the world into something more beautiful." - Paulo Coelho
Two-Column Note-Taking:
| Left Column (Text) | Right Column (Engagement) |
|---|---|
| "The true alchemists do not change lead into gold" | This is a metaphor! Alchemists are usually associated with transforming base metals. What does Coelho mean by this? |
| "They change the world into something more beautiful." | This is a very hopeful statement. What are some examples of people who have changed the world in a beautiful way? |
| | What does Coelho think makes something beautiful? |
Why This Works:
* Active Processing: You're not simply reading and highlighting. You're forcing yourself to think about the text, make connections, and ask questions.
* Record of Understanding: The notes serve as a visual record of your engagement and understanding.
* Reflective Thinking: The right column encourages you to pause and reflect, allowing you to connect the text to your own experiences, knowledge, and perspectives.
Other Active Reading Strategies:
* Previewing: Skimming the text before reading to get a sense of the main ideas.
* Questioning: Formulating questions before, during, and after reading to guide your understanding.
* Summarizing: Paraphrasing the main points in your own words.
* Visualizing: Creating mental images of the events or concepts described in the text.
Active reading isn't about memorizing facts; it's about engaging with the text to gain a deeper understanding and extract valuable insights.