The most common misconception students hold about reading is that every word of every textbook, journal article or research paper must be read in order to understand the concepts or to complete their assignments.

However, the majority of academic reading relies on two different skills; skimming and scanning texts which allow you to quickly identify key themes within the text as well as identifying important information.

In your own time, listen to the Academic Reading episode of the Study Matters Podcast

By the end of the episode, you'll have learned why reading strategically matters for academic studies and some techniques you can use to read more effectively to help you achieve your academic goals.

The transcript and resources for this episode can be accessed via our website: www.keele.ac.uk/library/training/…ills/studyguides/

In today's world, the ability to find, read, and use digital texts effectively is essential for academic and professional success, so how can you develop your digital reading skills to make the most of digital texts in your studies and work beyond university?

By the end of the episode, you should be able to:

1. Describe why digital texts matter for your learning and success at university

2. Explain the similarities and differences between reading on screen and on paper

3. Identify the common issues people experience when reading digital texts

4. Apply digital reading strategies to find, read, and evaluate digital texts effectively

Find out more about the Active Online Reading project: makingdigitalhistory.co.uk/read/active…ne-reading/

Want more top tips on digital reading? Download helpful infographics here: makingdigitalhistory.co.uk/files/2022/…rint_v4.pdf

The transcript and resources for this episode can be accessed via our Study Matters Podcast webpage: www.keele.ac.uk/library/training/…lls/studymatters/

When you skim, you should move your eyes down the page systematically, following the chapter or report headings and subheadings to identify the overall idea, concept or theme of the text.

Scanning is helpful when you are looking for information to review a text or evaluate information

Think about key words, phrases, names or dates as you look at the text.

To scan effectively, you will need to understand how the text is structured so you can quickly find the information you require.

Before you scan, identify key words or specific facts that will support you in finding information quickly. Keep these in mind as you scan the text.

When you find your key word, stop scanning and read the sentences around it.