It means critically and actively reading what is contained in the books. These are the most common ways students use their textbooks. But these are not necessarily the most effective nor the only effective ways to remember what you read. Annotating textbooks is actually very easy. When you read a paragraph or a section of the book, make a quick note in the margin that summarizes the paragraph or section.
Annotations are short and specific.
They are your own words for what you read. You should never have to reread a chapter or section of a textbook. Unless you have alot of extra time on your hands, and few college students do, you don t have time to reread course material. They should remind you of what you read. If the annotation is still confusing, read only the surrounding material.