The PQ4R method is an active learning strategy for studying that involves previewing material, asking questions, reading, reflecting, reciting, and reviewing. It is based on principles of learning and cognitive psychology and increases the amount of information recalled compared to more passive learning strategies. The method involves previewing chapters to identify key points, asking questions about the material, reading while answering questions, reflecting on and relating the content to prior knowledge, reciting the material in your own words, and repeatedly reviewing. It also suggests using the Premack Principle to motivate studying by allowing rewards like social media after completing study sessions.

1. PQ4R Method of Studying (PREVIEW, QUESTION, READ, REFLECT, RECITE, REVIEW)
(Adapted from www.csuchico.edu/, google “PQ4R” for more information)
• Most people use a passive learning strategy (you work very hard, but remember very little)
TRY THE PQ4R ACTIVE METHOD WITH YOUR LECTURE NOTES AND BOOK CHAPTERS
• Based on established principles of learning & cognitive psychology
• This method increases information recalled at testing
• Leads to more active learning & deeper processing
PREVIEW
• Look over material
• Skim the chapter headings, the boldface words,
• Read the outline summary
QUESTION
• Make up questions about what you found in the preview
• Turn section heading into a question
• Studying without questioning, you recall about 30%
• Studying with questioning, you recall about 72%
READ
• While reading answer your questions
• Make notes as you read
• Understand vocabulary
• Make notes in your own words
REFLECT
• Think about what you just read
• Think of examples from your life
• Relate it to things you already know about
RECITE
• Say material over to yourself; put in your own words
• If you don’t recall enough, reread sections
REVIEW
• Recall the material and test yourself
• Review several times
PREMACK PRINICIPLE (google “Premack Principle” for more information)
As an aside, consider using the Premack Principle as a way to raise your low motivation to
study, i.e., use your own high frequency behavior (Facebooking, watching TV, texting, etc.) to
reinforce (only as a reward for) low frequency behavior (studying). Remember, rewards come
after you work, not before; so no work, no reward . . .