This is a simple method for understanding, absorbing and remembering text. It is usually used by students in higher education, but can be used by anyone who wishes to remember a piece of text for pleasure or business.

SQ3R should be done in the order it is written : Survey first, then question, then read, then recite, then review. This is explained in more detail in the next paragraphs.

Survey - Scan through the chapter or page, and look at the title (if there is one), sub-titles and sub-headings. These will give you ideas of what the subject is about. If you were given a specific topic or question, have a quick review of it so it stays in your mind whilst you continue reading through the text. 

Question - If there are any questions at the end of the chapter or after any sub-headings, read them as they will indicate the basis of what the text is about, and what should be understood you have  finished reading. Write them down if necessary for future reference. Ask yourself what you already know about the subject you are reading about.

Read - Read the text. As you read the text, see if you can answer the questions that had arisen in the last step. Note down all information that is printed differently to other words i.e. printed in bold. If you do not understand what is being conveyed, slow down and re-read the section you found to be unclear. 

Recite - Summarise in your own words what you have just read. Write down your notes in your own words, or re -read the text whilst taking notes that you write in your own words.

Review - Now it is time to review what you have learnt. To do this, grab all you notes about the text you read and write questions for the notes you have taken. This means that the notes are the answers to the questions you have just written.

e.g. Notes taken : Attending conferences is a good way to maintain good knowledge.

Question for that note : What is a good way to maintain knowledge?

After  twenty-four hours, go back and quickly read the text, cover up the notes leaving only the questions you have written and try to answer them from memory. If you find answering some questions difficult to answer, create some flash cards highlighting the points to remember.

Continue reciting at regular intervals to refresh your memory, and soon you will be an expert!

Most of all, enjoy learning, have fun, and GOOD LUCK!