Chapter 1 Reading Critically

Chapter 1 Reading Critically

 

     Critical reading is not about finding issues with a literary work. It is about trying to figure out what the author of the passage you're reading is trying to say to his readers. That is what being in college is about. It's about learning to read critically, assess the information you're reading, and being able to apply to knowledge you already have. This is specifically called synthesizing.

      One thing that is important when you read critically is finding the difference between if what the author reader is saying is a fact or just an opinion. Both of these have important uses in literature such as proving points or helping the readers understand certain topics. Unfortunately just because someone has an opinion doesn't necessarily mean that it is worth listening to or that it has any value. This is also another part of critical reading. Being able to decide for yourself if someone's opinion has any worth.  

     A reader's attitude has a lot to do with their ability to successfully read critically. The reader needs to be able to be able to look at a specific passage as if they don't know anything about the subject. They need to be able to ask themselves questions about the passage, and decide whether the author is reliable. Another important thing is deciding if the information is recent enough to have any value.

     Time is another important thing when trying to read critically. A reader must take ample time to evaluate a passage or story. First, it is good to read through it once just to get the general idea of what you're reading. Next, it is important to go back and read it again. This time to take the time to ask yourself questions, make sure you understand all the words, and find the writers point to writing the passage.