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College students, you know you need to use your reading and study time as efficiently as possible. So, use your textbook features to maximize your reading comprehension skills to master the content, objectives, and terminology of your reading assignments.

One of the best reading comprehension strategies is to use textbook features to add meaning to the textbook content and to point out the main ideas and important concepts. Bold print, italicized words, headings, captions, and illustrations are all valuable features to help students zero-in on what is really important in the textbook.

Bold print-
Bold print identifies key terms and usually defines the term within the context of the chapter. Italicized words also help the reader see emphasized words and concepts.

Headings and subheadings-
Headings and subheadings present the material in an organized way to show relationships among concepts, main ideas, and supporting details.These features aid comprehension by displaying the textbook content in a way that helps organize the readers thoughts, practically in outline form.

Illustrations and captions-
Illustrations and captions supplement the text material by enhancing the concepts visually and by presenting important information in a way that catches the eye and draws the attention of the reader to these features that expand on the concepts in print.

Charts, graphs,and maps
In addition to pausing to see photographs and artwork and their captions, readers should also take time to understand charts, graphs,and maps that accompany the reading. They can reinforce your reading and even illuminate the text for increased understanding.

Textbook features such as special fonts, headings, and illustrations pull out the main points and serve as a road map to understanding text in all subject areas. Use them all to fully comprehend them as you read for information and understanding.

Another very important skill is to develop and use context clues. Often in textbooks and other technical materials, we come across new vocabulary and terms that are essential to not only pass tests but to fully understand the material. When you come across new terms, don't just flip to the glossary for definitions.

Context clues -
Increase your skills of using context clues to help you identify and learn unfamiliar terms.
Read and re-read the term in its context to determine meaning for yourself. How is the term used? Don't just read the very sentence where the term appears go back at least one paragraph and reread the material leading up to that sentence as well as the sentences that follow it.

Identifying meaning using context clues is one of the most valuable reading comprehension skills available. Develop that skill and you will see your reading ability soar.

Reading comprehension skills not only contribute to your college success. They increase your success in a later career and in participating in a lifelong process of learning. Use textbook features and context clues to maximize your understanding of your college reading.

Learn more about this author, E.M.Robinson.
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