The SQ3R reading method is a helpful reading tactic that can help individuals to improve their understanding in a particular topic while at the same time instilling confidence in them.
This is a method designed to help the learners to become more active and to retain the information gained in a more reliable way. The people who discipline themselves to use the tools become more prepared and get a better grasp of the class materials. This is one of the most reliable methods that people can use to better their performance especially in exams.

The SQ3R Reading Method includes five steps which are aimed at improving the understanding of the student. The SQ3R initials stand for Survey, Question, Read, Recite and Review. The method was basically designed for people tackling harder courses and those with a poor understanding. It is a method that helps when studying a chapter in a textbook.

1. Survey
Survey is the first step in the SQ3R Reading Method. When reading something, the step requires that one skims through the entire chapter before commencing with the reading. Look at the titles, headings as well as all the subheadings. This will help you to gain a rough idea of what the chapter is all about. The questions at the end of the chapter should also be looked at. It is also required to go through the introductory, conclusion and summary paragraphs in this step.

2. Question
The next step is to question all the headings, subheadings and titles. All this should be taken as questions which one plans on answering. This will help in determining what the instructor is offering at the end of every chapter or on a given subject. It is also important to gauge how much you know about the subject.

3. Read
Once the first two steps have been taken, the next step in the SQ3R Reading Method is to start reading. The preset questions should be placed next to the reading table since one is planning on finding the answers to them. Read everything on the chapter including the captions. The underlined and italicized or bolded words should be given more attention. When the passage is difficult, slow down and reread if unclear.

4. Recite
Once the passage has been completed, the next step is to recite the passage that has been completed. This can be done by asking the questions out load or writing a summary of the passage in own words. The important points on the read passage should also be underlined. If at all one has not understood the passage well, it is important that you reread it all over again.

5. Review
The review is the final step in the SQ3R Reading Method. This is done by searching the main headings and trying to fill some of the information that one is familiar with. Make sure that you understand the summaries and go over all the taken notes on the subject. The review sessions should be done severely and in different days. This will help in better the understanding of the overall concept and will definitely help in improving the performance in class.