Nerdify Reviews 6 ways the SQ3R Method can improve your study results
Studying can be grueling and tedious, especially in subjects that aren’t as likable or aren’t a favorite. However, Nerdify Reviews experts state that proper studying tools not only help with coursework but can provide valuable life skills that can be put to use outside the classroom. Knowing proper study methods can help a lot in both regards, as Reddit reviews can attest.
One such methodology to help with studying is the so-called SQ3R Method. This method is designed to help with reading comprehension and retention, which is a vital part of studying. SQ3R Method stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. Each part of the process can help, especially when combined.
1. Survey
The word survey here means to scan and look over the reading material, not ask a bunch of questions, at least not yet. As part of the survey process, reading the title, headings, and potential subheadings provide a quick overview of the material ahead. Any visuals, like graphs, can also provide useful information and future context before reading the actual material.
2. Question
Now comes the questioning. While reading through the material, turn headings and other key portions of the reading into questions. This reverse Jeopardy-like approach can help with information retention and comprehension. It is also useful to pose questions based on the previous survey. Looking for those answers in the material will not only help with studying, but it’s also a useful reading and analytical tool.
3. Read
Now it’s time to actually read the material. With questions and surveys in mind, the reading process will take more time, but it will also mean better retention of what is read. While reading, more questions may come to mind, and that’s okay. More questions mean more searches for answers, which means more information. In other words, better reading, better learning, and thus, better studying.
4. Recite
Stating information out loud can help some people remember it better. A good strategy in this regard is to use the previously answered questions like flash cards. By reading the questions out loud it might be easier to remember the answers. Stating the correct answers aloud will also help with reinforcing the reading, and may assist with comprehension, too. Sometimes it helps to sound out words or long sentences, regardless of the age of the reader or the material involved.
5. Review
Having created questions, provided answers, and read through the material visually and verbally, reviewing might seem a bit overwhelming. Sites like Reddit and Edu Services company blog may recommend a brief break after the initial studying. Reviewing is important, but overwhelming the brain can cause stress and anxiety. Reviewing before the material is needed, such as for a test or major paper, will help reinforce comprehension and retention without causing stress.
Going over the questions and answers will make for a briefer review than reading over all the material again, which is usually not needed. When it comes to reviewing, the highlights are the important parts.
When to Use the SQ3R Method
Having explained the method in detail, it’s important to know when to use it and it is not needed. Generally, the Nerdify Reviews experts say the method is best for hefty texts with a lot of material that needs to be read and retained for a purpose such as a test.
That said, some people might find the methodology useful for other situations, such as reviewing sources for a paper or looking over guidebooks for work. The SQ3R Method can be used even beyond the classroom, which is why learning it can be so helpful.
Conclusion
The SQ3R Method is an exceptionally useful tool for reviewing a large amount of information provided in text format. When preparing for a test, the method provides several ways to read, retain, and review the material. These methods allow for a better understanding of the text in a variety of ways, which further increases retention and comprehension.
Not all of the method’s parts will work well for everyone. Some people may not like the reciting aspect or having to come up with a bunch of questions before reading. You can use some separate parts of this method for your studying, says the Nerdify Reviews team, but note that this methodology is designed to work as a whole system, thus it brings better results when you use all its elements.
The SQ3R Method is also not best for all situations. While it is useful for reviewing a lot of text, it’s more meant for studying before a major exam. Some people may want to make use of the method for reading through potential sources or just to better understand something they’re reading. That’s okay, too, because a benefit of the SQ3R Method is that it is meant to provide useful tools not just for the classroom, but for life beyond studying as well.
If you’re looking for other study methods you can look through our posts about finding reliable information online or online sources that help in the study.
