7 Previewing
Learning Outcomes
- Identify the steps in the preview phase of the reading process.
- Differentiate between expository, argumentative, and narrative forms of writing.
- Apply steps of previewing to an academic text.
Why Preview?
Never start reading without taking the time to prepare your mind for the task. It may seem like a waste of time: why not start the reading immediately so you can finish sooner? However, the extra step of previewing may actually save time, and even if it does not, you will understand the text more deeply and gain more from the reading experience.
You may need to make adjustments as you read or as you drive, but previewing provides a general map just like a navigation system.
The purpose of previewing a text before reading is three-fold.
- Previewing allows you to assess the length and complexity of the reading task. Is it a long or short reading? Are the paragraphs dense or shorter in length? Are there headings to guide the organization or not? This helps you to determine how much time you might need to complete the reading. Lengthier texts with longer paragraphs and few headings may require more time.
- Previewing gives you the chance to assess your prior knowledge about the topic of the text before you start reading. Are you familiar with the topic or is it brand new? What do you already know about the topic? If you are unfamiliar with the content, you may need to spend more time with the text.
- Previewing is like a warm-up for your brain. Previewing builds your engagement before even starting the reading as you take the time to make predictions and ask questions about the reading. This will help you to stay alert and focused as you read.
How Do You Preview a Text?
There is no one method, and it often depends on the type of text; but here is a general process you can follow if you are new to previewing. The best way to preview is to have a printed copy of the text so that you can write thoughts and questions in the margins while previewing. If you cannot write on the text, consider using post-it notes or writing your ideas on paper.
Remember this as you preview: Your predictions do not have to be accurate. Their purpose is to activate your brain and to help you engage with the writing. When you read the text later, you can read to confirm or revise your predictions.
Previewing Steps
By following these steps, you will stimulate your brain before reading and be able to engage with the ideas in the text.
- Read the title (and subtitle, if there is one). What does it reveal about the text? What does it make you think about? What questions do you have? Write down your predictions and questions.
- If there is an introduction, read it. (If the introduction is not clearly marked, read the first paragraph or two.) What does it reveal about the article? What does it make you think about? What questions do you have? Write down your predictions and questions.
- If there are headings or subheading, scan the article to