Here's a compilation of reading tips from all three English 101 classes. We agreed that everyone has to find her or his own study style. For instance, while most folks felt that reading happens best in a quiet atmosphere, others needed background noise and distractions to help them focus better. Choose what works for you.

Physical tips

• Choose a quiet atmosphere with no distractions (library, study room).
• Choose a place with background noise.
• Sit up while you read.
• No reading on beds.
• Make sure that you have bright lights around you.
• Drink caffeine.
• Be sober.
• Don't read when you're tired.
• If sleepy, walk around to get your blood flowing.
• Read during the day.
• Take breaks between chapters; read in 20-minute increments.

• Be positive -- before, during, and after.
• Focus and concentrate.
• Give yourself enough time to do the reading.
• Don't procrastinate.
• Keep up with the reading - stay ahead of the reading.
• Reward yourself with a ten-minute break to watch TV, call a friend.
• Change subjects, to keep your mind fresh.
• Be interested in your reading materials.
• Use study groups.

• Preview each section -- read the table of contents, skim through titles and main objectives.
• Read from beginning to end.
• Pay close attention to words in bold typeface.
• Highlight (underline) important sections, facts, key points.
• Write notes in the margins.
• Look for main ideas in paragraphs.
• Take notes -- summarize periodically on paper or mentally.
• Read more than once.
• Picture what you are reading.
• Read out loud.
• Reread what you don't understand.