Get Better at Reading Books With These Simple Steps

Published 19 November 2024 by

Martin Hamilton

I recently read a book about how to read a book. Here is a high-level synopsis and layout of “How to Read a Book” by Mortimer J. Adler, without reproducing any copyrighted material:

The book aims to teach readers how to read more effectively and get the most out of books. It’s divided into four main parts:

Part 1: The Dimensions of Reading

Explores different reasons and goals for reading
Introduces the four levels of reading: elementary, inspectional, analytical, and syntopical

Part 2: The Third Level of Reading: Analytical Reading

Focuses on how to read a book analytically for deep comprehension
Covers determining a book’s structure and classifying it
Explains how to interpret a book’s contents by finding key arguments and terms
Describes how to criticize a book fairly and establish agreement/disagreement with the author

Part 3: Approaches to Different Kinds of Reading Matter

Discusses how to read practical books, imaginative literature, stories/plays/poems, history, science/math, philosophy, and social science
Explores the different techniques needed for each genre

Part 4: The Ultimate Goals of Reading

Covers syntopical reading – the highest, most complex level of reading
Explains how to read several books on a subject and synthesize the ideas
Talks about why and how to grow your intellectual powers through reading

In summary, the book provides a systematic framework to help people read more purposefully, skillfully and critically. It encourages active engagement with books to absorb knowledge.

What Is Syntopical Reading and How Can We Get Better At It?

Syntopical reading, also known as comparative reading, is the highest level of reading according to Mortimer Adler’s framework. It involves reading multiple books on the same subject and comparing and contrasting the ideas, arguments, and themes across these books. The goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of a particular topic by synthesizing information from various sources.

To improve your syntopical reading skills, you can follow these steps:

Define your subject and identify relevant books: Clearly outline the topic you want to explore and find several books that cover this subject from different perspectives.
Inspect the books: Skim through the books to grasp their structure, main arguments, and key concepts. This will help you determine which books are most relevant to your inquiry.
Create a terminology: As you read, note down key terms and concepts used across the books. Create a standardized set of terms to help you compare ideas effectively.
Establish questions: Formulate a set of questions that you want to answer through your reading. These questions will guide your analysis and help you focus on the most relevant information.
Read and analyze: Actively read the selected books, focusing on the passages that address your questions. Take notes, compare arguments, and identify patterns and discrepancies among the authors’ ideas.
Synthesize and evaluate: After reading, synthesize the information you’ve gathered to answer your initial questions. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each author’s arguments and form your own conclusions about the subject.
Apply and discuss: Apply your newly acquired knowledge to real-world situations or discussions. Engage in conversations with others who have read the same books or are knowledgeable about the subject to deepen your understanding.

Syntopical reading is a challenging but rewarding process that requires practice, patience, and critical thinking skills. By regularly engaging in this type of reading, you can improve your ability to analyze complex ideas, think critically, and form well-informed opinions on a wide range of subjects.

Learn more about How To Read A Book by Mortimer J. Adler.

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