Approaches of Efficient Academic Reading

Sometimes it is easier to say than done. Follow by the following points which I got inspired from Michael Hanson and Dylan McNamee version of "Efficient Reading of Papers in Science and Technology". Stick to these principles for a while, progress will be accumulated and ideas will be inspired.

Skim Reading

• Abstract is a good way to get the general idea of what the paper is about.
• Introduction is a good way to know the background of the proposed solution to a current problem.
• Algorithm gives the analysis of the justification of the proposed theoretical idea and implementation shows the validation of the proposed idea.
• Conclusion shows the merits and some drawbacks maybe for further research. 

Thorough Reading

• Pay attention to the proposed approach.
• Be aware of the limitation and challenges.
• Examine the assumption, methods, statistics, reasoning and conclusion.
• Take notes while reading and Highlight major points.
• Think through the conclusion by yourself.

Another thing to bare in mind is that always examine the credibility of the paper before the thorough reading. Typical approach can be a look on the abstract, the conference and the bibliography.

I DO believe there is no shortcut when it comes to critical study. Absorb other's fruit before make a further step upon other's contribution.