The Importance of Previewing Texts for Effective Reading

Survey

Survey is a critical step in the SQ3R reading method, which stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review. During the survey phase, readers preview the text by reading titles, headings, subheadings, and any other organizational features in order to gain a broad understanding of the content before diving deeper into the details. This process allows readers to set the stage for comprehension and retention of the material.

By surveying the text, readers can activate their prior knowledge, identify main ideas, and create a mental framework for organizing the information they are about to read. This previewing step helps readers focus on key points, make connections between ideas, and anticipate the structure of the text, which can enhance overall reading comprehension.

Effective surveying of texts can save time and improve reading efficiency by providing a roadmap for engaging with the material. It allows readers to approach the text with a purpose and a clear sense of direction, which can lead to more effective learning outcomes. By mastering the survey step in SQ3R, readers can become more strategic and intentional in their reading practices.