The SQ3R method is a sequence of strategies to be followed when reading content area or informational texts following five steps.
- Surveying. The students survey what they are about to read. This should give the students an idea as to the content and organization of the text.
- Questioning. The students return to the first section of the text they are to read and formulate a question. This sets the purpose for reading.
- Reading. The students are to read the first section in an attempt to answer their proposed question. If the answer to their question is not answered, they formulate a new one and answer it.
- Reciting. The students answer their question in their own words, either orally or written without looking back at the text for help.
- Continue steps 1–4 for each section of the text until the assigned reading is complete.
- Reviewing. The students review the material by again answering the questions they formulated without the aid of the text