SQ3R - Notetaking with a Textbook

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SQ3R is a method of note-taking that's especially helpful when you're first encountering a text. This method helps you identify key ideas, break down topics, make connections, and ask questions.

We suggest trying the SQ3R method when you're learning complex chapters or ideas. This strategy teaches you to use the organization, tools, and signposts of your textbook to your advantage. By using SQ3R and similar methods, you can break down challenging topics into digestible and organized notes and better retain that information for the future. We'll explain this method further below.

SQ3R stands for: 

  • Survey
  • Question
  • Read
  • Recite
  • Review

Each of these words signals a step in the note-taking process. Here's how each of these steps works.

1. Survey

Before you read, survey a text to get a general sense of the topics covered. Gather this information by focusing on the following:

  • Read the title, headings, and subheadings within the chapter.
  • Look at the captions under pictures, charts, graphs, maps, and diagrams.
  • Skim the chapter abstract (the paragraph at the start of the chapter that describes what you're going to read) and conclusion or summary. Try to understand the author’s main points and conclusions in the text. What is the chapter about? Does it build on anything that you've learned in previous weeks?
2. Question

Develop questions while you're surveying to help your mind engage and concentrate. Do this by:

  • reading the questions at the end of the chapter so that you can better understand the points the author is trying to make;
  • asking yourself, “What do I already know about this subject?”;
  • generating questions about the text before you read (e.g., "How does this chapter relate to last week's materials?"); and
  • answering your questions as you read the text.
3. Read

When you read, develop a sense of the chapter's main ideas and supporting points. Remember that your goal is to understand the text and not just to get through the pages quickly. When reading, pay attention to the following:

  • Look closely at charts, graphs, pictures, and other visual aids. These items often call out important information or illustrate difficult concepts.
  • Look up the definition of words you don't know, especially words that seem relevant to the chapter.
  • Highlight or underline key passages after you've read an entire section. This way you can identify the most important pieces of information.
  • Take your time, and pause to consider what you're reading. Check in with your questions. Are you identifying the right information? How do different sections fit together?
4. Recite

Recite or repeat to yourself what you've learned after you’ve read a section:

  • Summarize the section in your own words, either out loud or written in your notes.
  • Go back and highlight or underline important definitions or key phrases.
  • Consider writing your summary on paper with a pencil or pen to engage your brain. Using physical objects like pen and paper can help you remember the information.
5. Review

Once you've completed the text:

  • Go back over your questions and the answers you identified.
  • Review your notes regularly.
  • Contact your instructor about any concepts you don't understand and need more help with.
  • Take a break before moving on to the next chapter.

 

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