If you’re like me, you probably enjoy reading more than one book at a time—often a mix of professional or personal development titles alongside a gripping nonfiction thriller (psychological thrillers are currently my genre of choice).
But let’s be honest: sometimes, you just want the main takeaway without getting lost in all the details. With the number of speed-reading resources out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Most of these methods offer great insights and strategies—but if you're short on time and focused on the essentials, here’s a streamlined breakdown of three effective approaches to help you read more efficiently and with greater focus:
1. KBG Method (Know – Believe – Guess)
A strategy to help activate prior knowledge and guide engagement with the text:
K – Know: What do you already know about the topic? This helps prime your brain.
B – Believe: What do you believe might be true? Forming assumptions increases engagement.
G – Guess: What do you expect to learn or read based on the title, headings, or context?
Use this method before reading to set expectations, then revisit your assumptions as you go.
2. The 4 Ps Method
Designed to enhance critical reading and comprehension, especially for analytical or persuasive texts:
Purpose – Why was the piece written? Is it meant to inform, persuade, or entertain?
Plan – How is the information organized (e.g., problem-solution, chronological)?
Point of View – What is the author’s perspective or bias?
Proof – What evidence is used to support the main ideas?
Apply this while reading and during reflection to sharpen analysis and retention.
3. THIEVES Framework
An excellent previewing tool for nonfiction, particularly textbooks and academic material:
T – Title: What’s the subject?
H – Headings: What are the main themes?
I – Introduction: What context or purpose does it provide?
E – Every first sentence: Scan first sentences in paragraphs for key ideas.
V – Visuals and Vocabulary: Note charts, images, bolded terms.
E – End-of-chapter questions: What are the key learning objectives?
S – Summary: What are the takeaways?
Use this before reading to preview the structure and focus your attention.
Bonus Tip: These strateges are even more powerful when used together:
Start with THIEVES to preview the content.
Use KBG to activate your prior knowledge and form predictions.
Apply the 4 Ps as you read to analyze purpose, structure, and evidence.
Read smarter, not harder.
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