Reading instructions

The reading instructions I have for how you should handle different parts of the literature have the following meanings:

• Browse: read as fast as you can. If there is something that you don't understand, then don't stop - just read through it. This "technique" is used for background material where it is not important that you understand the details, but the general meaning of the text will be important for you to understand other texts.
• Read: read a little slower. If there is something that you don't understand, then stop and think for 5-10 seconds. If you still cannot figure it out you just continue to read - it is probably not that important. If you suspect that it might be important, then you make a mental - or written - note and ask during lecture or exercises. This "technique" is used when I want you to pick up and understand some important concepts and principles, but not necessarily get all the finer details.
• Study: read carefully. If there is something that you don't understand, then stop and think for 30-40 seconds. If you still cannot figure it out, you make a note before you continue to read. You then bring up "your notes" for your group at the next exercises or ask at the lectures. This "technique" is used when I want you to understand most of (but not necessarily all) the details about important concepts and principles and also reflect on their implications and how they relate.