Stop "Consuming" Books: Start Active Reading

Most people read books the same way they watch TV: passively. They let the words flow over them, hoping something sticks. Two weeks later, they can't remember a single concept. This is a waste of time.

To truly learn, you must switch to Active Reading. You need to treat the book like a conversation, not a lecture.

The SQ3R Method

Developed by educational psychologists, this method triples retention rates:

1. Survey: Scan the chapter titles, bold text, and images first. Build a map in your head.
2. Question: Turn headings into questions. If the header is "The 4% Rule", ask "What is the 4% rule?"
3. Read: Now read the text to find the answer to your question.
4. Recite: Look away from the page and say the main point out loud in your own words.
5. Review: Go back over your notes the next day.