The SQ3R study strategy involves 5 steps to actively read and comprehend texts: 1) Survey the text to understand its structure and key points; 2) Question by turning headings into questions to focus reading; 3) Read actively while finding answers; 4) Recite by summarizing the text in your own words to check understanding; 5) Review notes and highlights to retain the information. Using SQ3R helps the reader gain a big picture, stay focused while reading, and effectively prepare for exams.