The world is full of knowledge, and no matter how much we read or learn, we can never take it all in. There’s always an underlying feeling that something is missing and there is so much more out there waiting to be discovered.

It might be connected to your studies, a course you’re taking, a skill you want to learn, etc., but the search never truly stops. One of the simplest and most rewarding ways to feed that curiosity is by reading.

Reading is the basis for gaining knowledge — because it not only informs us, but also entertains. As Francis Bacon says, “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested” — which makes it clear that not every book needs equal attention or time.

But how can one decide whether the book they have taken needs to be skimmed through or scanned through, and still get the information it is supposed to give?

Love books but never seem to have enough time? Here’s how to pick the right ones, read them smartly and still enjoy every page!

Let’s discuss some key points that will surely assist you in selecting a book and reading it accordingly.

Choose your genre

Before purchasing a book, just give a thought to what it is that you want to read. A story, biography, novel, history or any other genre? You have to be clear about the genre before buying a book.

Use the title as a clue

After selecting the genre, give a little time to think about what the title of the book you are planning to buy suggests. Does it make you curious to read it? Do you think you will read it or it will just gather dust on your shelf? Or judge it according to whatever criteria you have for selecting your next book.

Skim and scan

Reading involves two main techniques: skimming and scanning. Both techniques help........

© Dawn Young Magazine