Post: #1

Does anyone have tips on how to retain more info from reading books? I read quite a lot of books but I can't seem to remember a lot after 1-2 months.

I do lots of underlining on my kindle so re-reading that helps. Just wondering what you guys do? Do you actively take notes while reading? Writing summaries after finishing reading a book?

Post: #2

I don't remember where I read it, but taking notes (written by hand, writing stuff on the pc or ipad does nothing for your brain) helps with reading retention and comprehension. There's something about writing things down that makes connections in the brain.

I do it and it works wonders for me. I only write down the important stuff, and some thoughts that come to mind while reading and it helps me a lot. Also, reading and then writing stuff in your own words.

Post: #3

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/How_to_Read_a_Book

Don't laugh with the title it's a really good book

Post: #4

I recall hearing that Abraham Lincoln used to drive his coworkers mad by reading the newspaper aloud.

Apparently by doing so, he was able to retain what he read much better.
So try that next time you want to recall a book better.

Post: #5

(10-05-2017 03:26 PM)Pete Wrote:  I don't remember where I read it, but taking notes (written by hand, writing stuff on the pc or ipad does nothing for your brain) helps with reading retention and comprehension. There's something about writing things down that makes connections in the brain.

I do it and it works wonders for me. I only write down the important stuff, and some thoughts that come to mind while reading and it helps me a lot. Also, reading and then writing stuff in your own words.

https://www.scientificamerican.com/artic...-a-laptop/

Post: #6

(10-05-2017 03:26 PM)Pete Wrote:  I don't remember where I read it, but...

Post: #7

An interesting (albeit arguable) take by Vivekananda on retention (continence meaning sexual abstention, in this context):

Simply by the observance of strict continence all learning can be mastered in a very short time -- one has an unfailing memory of what one hears or knows but once. It is owing to this want of continence that everything is on the brink of ruin in our country.
http://www.swamivivekanandaquotes.org/20...nts_9.html

Post: #8

If the book is really worth reading, then it's probably worth reading very slowly and carefully. Soak in every word and nuance.

Have emotional reactions to what you read. Did the writer say that your lifestyle or ideas are wrong? Get mad about it, read passionately.

There's an old technique for improving your memory: memorize poetry. I'm not talking about some modern moron writing prose trash, breaking it into lines for no other purpose than to say, "look at me, I'm an artist!" No, memorize real poetry (language constructed with a pattern of rhythm and meter) from people like Alexander Pope, Shakespeare, Milton, Thomas Morell, or even W.S. Gilbert. After awhile you won't recognize your own memory.