HOW TO READ A BOOK

F. J. Buckley, S. J.

A. General Orientation:

    Date (Bibliography)

    Preface

B. Structure:

    Table of Contents

    First & last paragraphs of chapter...headings

    Topic sentences of paragraphs

C. Mark it:

    Underline key themes

    Marginal notes & questions

    Circle matters to be explained

D. Critique it:

    1) What are the major issues discussed?

    2) Is the approach sound, plausible, acceptable? Why?

    3) What assumptions are made?  How are they justified?

    4) How does this fit in with your experience?

    5) How does this fit in with other authors?

    6) Do you agree or disagree?  Why?

    7) What conclusions follow--for you, for others?

    8) How will you act on this?

                             HOW TO STUDY

1. Organize time

2. Start with hardest material

3. Race the clock

4. Analyze & synthesize: find main points & interrelations

5. Test yourself: ask & answer questions