The PSQ5R Technique

The PSQ5R method is a technique for understanding a text proficiently.[1] PSQ5R is a formula that stands for the basic steps in learning from reading in an efficient manner. The P stands for Purpose, the S for Survey, the Q for Question, the 5 R’s for Read Selectively, Recite, Reduce-record, Reflect, and Review (PSQ5R).

In understanding a textbook by reading the PSQ5R technique can be done several stages, namely:

1.      The “P” means “Purpose”: the reader’s purpose for reading a specific text may be to understand a theme, an argument, a main idea, or details. When the purpose is accomplished, the reader stops reading.

2.      The “S” stands for “Survey” or “Skim”: the reader briefly looks at the main parts of a text, such as the title, headings, and first and last paragraphs, to determine the theme and the manner in which the author discusses the theme.

In doing this you should find the Focus of the piece that is, the central theme or
subject, what it is all about; and perhaps the Perspective, that is, the approach or manner in which the author treats the theme. This survey should be carried out in no more than a minute or two.

3.      The “Q” means “Question”: the reader uses headings or topic sentences to compose questions to answer while reading. What do I already know about this topic? - In other words, activate prior knowledge. Turn the first heading into a question, to which you will be seeking the answer when you read.  

4.      The five “Rs” are :

·         “Read Selectively”: Read to find the answers to your question. By reading the
first sentence of each paragraph you may well get the answers. Sometimes the text will "list" the answers by saying "The first point is ... Second point is..." and so on. And in some cases you may have to read each paragraph carefully just to understand the next one, and to find the Focus or main idea buried in it. In general, look for the ideas, information, evidence, etc., that will meet your
purpose.

·         “Recite”: Without looking at the book, recite the answers to the question, using your own words as much as possible. If you cannot do it reasonably well, look over that section again.

·         “Reduce/Record” : Make a brief outline of the question and your answers. The answers should be in key words or phrases, not long sentences. For example, "Effects of 100 Yrs' War? - consolidate Fr. King's power, Engl. off continent". Or, "Unions on Wages? - Uncertain, maybe 10-15%".

·         “Reflect”: Recent work in cognitive psychology indicates that comprehension and retention are increased when you "elaborate" new information. This is to reflect on it, to turn it this way and that, to compare and make categories, to relate one part with another, to connect it with your other knowledge and personal experience, and in general to organize and reorganize it.

·         “Review” : Survey your "reduced" notes of the paper or chapter to see them as a whole. This may suggest some kind of overall organization that pulls it all together. Then recite, using the questions or other cues as starters or stimuli for recall. This latter kind of recitation can be carried out in a few minutes, and should be done every week or two with important material.

With this technique (PSQ5R), the students reads selectively to achieve the stated purpose, recites mentally the information learned, paraphrases and records the information as notes, thinks about the information, and goes over it again within 24 hours.

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