The PRM(F)Q Reading and Study Method

The PRM(F)Q method is a wonderful way to get the most out of a textbook reading assignment. It is a process designed for ease and success. Here’s how it works:

P—stands for PREVIEW—the preview is easy. Find the names of the major parts or sub-headings of the reading assignment and draw a “tinkertoy” of the overall structure on a piece of scratch paper. Label the shapes you draw with the names of the parts or sub-headings, and off you go to the next step.

R—stands for READ. With the “tinkertoy” sketch in front of you, take the name of the first part or sub-heading, turn it into a question, and read the short section to find the answer. Remember, you are looking for “The Big Six.”

M—stands for MARK. After finishing the short section, see if you can answer the question you created and then go back and mark any members of “The Big Six.” When marking your textbook, consider following my suggestions.

In addition, write labels/recall words/questions in the left-hand margin of the textbook pages. You can use these labels to quiz yourself or prepare flashcards on the marked textbook information, just as we did with our lecture notes.

If test questions will come from the lectures and not directly from the textbook, jump to the Q in this process.

(F)—stands for FLASHCARDS. IF the test questions will come from the textbook assignment, transfer “The Big Six” you marked to FLASHCARDS.

Q—stands for QUIZ YOURSELF REPEATEDLY. If you prepared flashcards (because test questions will come from the textbook reading assignments), take the prepared flashcards with you and quiz yourself now and again—any time you have a few minutes’ break.

If you did not prepare flashcards from the textbook markings you made (because test questions will come more from the lectures), occasionally page through the textbook assignments and quiz yourself on the marked information, but spend more of your energy on the lecture notes.