Module 4- Study Techniques: Preview, Question, Read, Reflect, Recite, Review

One study method that many students have found to be effective is "PQ4R," or "Preview, Question, Read, Reflect, Recite, Review."

To use this method to study for the WEST–B, you may decide to study for each of the three sub-tests separately.

After reviewing the objectives and descriptive statements for a particular sub-test, you could locate appropriate study materials such as textbooks.

 

Then you could apply the six steps of the PQ4R method as described below:

  1. Preview: Scan the section headings and subheadings of the chapter or article you wish to study. Read the introduction or overview section as well as the summary section. This initial step can provide a good foundation on which to build your knowledge of a topic or skill.
  2. Question: Based upon the WEST–B test objectives and your preview of the study materials, think of specific questions that you would like to find answers for as you study. Write these questions down and use them as a guide as you read.
  3. Read: Read through the chapter you have selected. Adjust your reading speed as needed; some sections may take less time to read than others. Also, study any figures, tables, or graphics when you come across references to them in the text. This helps to keep each piece in context.
  4. Reflect: As you read, think about the examples and descriptions provided in the text. You may also think of examples from your own experience that are related to what you are reading. Reflective reading is active reading; by interacting with what you read, you may better understand and remember the content.
  5. Recite: When you complete each section of the text, check your understanding of what you have read. Can you answer the questions about this section that you wrote down before you started? Do you need to reread the section or some parts of it? Monitoring your progress by asking yourself these types of questions may help you identify areas you understand well and areas that you will want to study further.
  6. Review: After you have finished reading the text, you may want to check your understanding of the content by reviewing your questions for the whole chapter. Can you answer your questions without referring to the text? Reviewing your questions for a chapter immediately after you finish reading it, as well as later in your study plan schedule, can help you retain and apply what you have learned.