How to Read a Textbook Checklist

September 04, 2025

Posted by STLCC in Tutoring Resources 

This resource provides a list of things to keep in mind as you read your textbook. It's a good review for those who want to navigate their textbooks quickly and effectively.

Reading Purpose:

• I am reading to preview the chapter for class.
• I am reading to take notes.
• I am reading to prepare to write a summary.

Textbook Features:

• I know the title of this textbook (on the cover and inside page).
• I found and read the book “Preface” (front of the textbook).
• I know where the table of contents is located (front of the textbook).
• I know how many chapters are in this textbook (front of the book).
• I know where the glossary is located (back of the book).
• I know where the Subject and Name Index is located (back of the book).
• I know where the Credits page is located (back of the book), which includes important information for citations.
• I know where the Appendix (appendices) is located.

Textbook Chapters:

• I am able to locate every chapter and the associated page number(s).
• I read each chapter’s objective (typically found on the first page of the chapter).
• I read all chapter headings and sub-headings.
• I read and understand vocabulary and new terminology in the margins of the pages, commonly in bold face.
• I read each table in the chapter and related text.
• I look at pictures in the chapter and read the captions.
• I read each graph in the chapter.
• I use the exercises and quizzes at the end of the chapter.
• I read each chart and related text.