The SQ3R Study Method is a set of strategies designed to help students better comprehend, retain and recall information for academic purposes. SQ3R stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review. It was developed in the 1940s by Francis Robinson as an effective approach to learning that can significantly enhance the ability to retain and recall relevant information. The method is based on the idea that engaging in certain activities leads to better absorption of material and thus, an overall better understanding of the topic.

Survey

The “Survey” portion of the SQ3R method teaches students to first glance at the material they will be studying in order to gain an overview of the topics. This overview should include a glance at any titles, headings, or images. This step allows the student to gain a better understanding of what the material is about and can better prepare them for the next steps of the method.

Question

The “Question” portion of the SQ3R method encourages students to develop questions of their own based on the material and the content of the material they will be studying. This can be done by breaking down difficult ideas into smaller and more manageable questions. This step is beneficial in engaging the student in critical thinking and problem-solving that can aid in retaining the material.

Read

The “Read” portion of the SQ3R method allows the student to read through the material in depth and more thoroughly understand the content. This step involves reading the material carefully and taking note of any key points and details. It is important to use the questions developed in the previous step to guide the reading and make sure all key topics and ideas are fully understood.

Recite

The “Recite” portion of the SQ3R method involves the student actively engaging in the material by reciting the topics and ideas they have learned and retained from the material. This can be done out loud or simply to oneself. This step encourages not just silent reading and understanding, but an active verbalization of the material that can help with memorization.

Review

The “Review” portion of the SQ3R method is the final step and it involves going back to the material and rereading or glancing over key points. This is done to ensure that ideas and topics learned have been fully understood and retained by the student. This step is also important for repeated exposure to the material in order to better understand and remember it.

In conclusion, the SQ3R Study Method is an effective approach to learning because it encourages the student to engage in the material actively, thus aiding in comprehension and retention. By breaking the material into different steps, it allows for a systematic approach to learning that can be effective in any academic setting.