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RC
Active Reading Method
Overview
Active reading transforms passive consumption into engaged analysis. Instead of trying to memorize details, focus on understanding structure, purpose, and relationships between ideas.
1.Read for structure, not memorization — identify each paragraph's purpose
2.Mark the main point within the first 2-3 minutes of reading
3.Track viewpoints: who says what, and do they agree or disagree?
4.Note transitions (however, although, nevertheless) — they signal key shifts
5.Create a mental "map" of where information lives in the passage
A passage discusses three theories of dinosaur extinction. Paragraph 1 introduces the debate. Paragraph 2 presents the asteroid theory. Paragraph 3 presents the volcano theory. Paragraph 4 argues for a combined explanation.
What is the author's main point?
Answer D:
The author builds toward the combined explanation in paragraph 4 — the earlier paragraphs set up the components. Active reading helps you see this structure before answering questions.
✗Trying to memorize every detail on first read
✗Spending too long on the passage (aim for 3-4 minutes)
✗Ignoring transition words and structural cues
✗Not identifying the main point before starting questions