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BFW-Maximizing Your Reading Experience: Reading for Entertainment, Information, and Deep Understanding
Dear Reader,
Welcome to another edition of Brain Food Wednesdays, your weekly intellectual feast. In this edition, issue 214, we dive into how to read books for specific purposes. The act of reading a book can serve multiple purposes. It can be a source of entertainment, a way to gather information, or a method to deepen your understanding of a particular subject. Each purpose requires a different approach to reading, and understanding these distinctions can enhance your reading experience.
Reading for Entertainment
When you pick up a book for entertainment, especially fiction, the goal is to immerse yourself in the world the author has created. Whether it’s a gripping thriller, a heartwarming romance, or a fantastical adventure, the joy is in the journey. Every word matters because each one contributes to the plot, the atmosphere, and the characterization.
Yes, some authors might be verbose, painting their narratives with a broad brush that includes intricate details. But remember, these details often enrich the story, providing depth to the characters and the world they live in. Skipping or skimming these details might cause you to miss out on crucial elements of the plot or the emotional nuances that make the story compelling. So, when reading for entertainment, savor every word and let yourself be carried away by the narrative.
Reading for Information
Reading for information allows for a different approach. Here, you’re not concerned with the narrative flow or the artful turn of phrase. Instead, you’re seeking specific knowledge, facts, or data.
Here, the 80/20 rule can be a helpful guideline. The rule suggests that you can understand 80% of the information in a book by reading just 20% of the text. This isn’t about cutting corners, but about identifying and focusing on the most valuable content.
To apply this rule, start by scanning the table of contents, chapter headings, and subheadings to get a sense of the book’s structure and main points. Then, read the introduction and conclusion of each chapter to understand the key arguments and findings. Look for summaries, bullet points, and highlighted text, as these often contain crucial information.
Reading to Deepen Understanding
You’re seeking knowledge, but you’re also engaging with the text in a more thoughtful and contemplative manner. Some nonfiction books are denser than others, packed with essential information that requires careful reading. In these cases, it’s important to take your time and not rush the process.
Educator Russell Stauffer found that, on average, only 4 to 11% of the text on a nonfiction page carries the essential meaning. This doesn’t mean that the remaining text is irrelevant, but that it supports, explains, or elaborates on the key points.
Therefore, when reading to deepen understanding, focus on identifying and comprehending these key points. Don’t ignore the surrounding text. Use it to gain a fuller understanding of the topic, but don’t read what you already know. Take notes, highlight important passages, and reread sections if necessary.
Final Thoughts
The way you read a book should align with your purpose for reading. Whether you’re reading for entertainment, information, or to deepen your understanding, each approach requires a different mindset and strategy. By understanding these distinctions, you can tailor your reading habits to get the most out of every book you pick up. Remember, every book is an opportunity to learn, to escape, and to broaden your horizons.
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Until next Brain Food Wednesday,
Warm regards,
Avil Beckford
Editor, Brain Food Wednesdays
Founder, The Invisible Mentor & Art of Learning Leadership Academy