Reading framework – Part 1 Introduction

This is my attempt at making a cohesive system.

Aim of the reading framework

This framework aims to reduce cognitive work of information overload.

Principles

• Reading intellectually stimulating books.
• Read diverse range of books.
• Adhere to “T-Shape” principle of learning.
• Remember what you read
• Integration of your reading into a broader framework.

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Reading spectrum

To create a system for assimilating information and inculcating knowledge.

Your attention and effort must expended intelligently. This framework, which i have been developing ( inspired by many other materials) is an experiment to simplify and learn

This diagram illustrates the effort and attention required for different kind of reading materials.

Read selective material. World is full of readings that don’t deserve the paper they are printed on.

Make sure your effort and attention is devoted to materials that really require them.

Read effectively

I will list the basic structure of this framework before going into my own workflow. – Please note that this is an organic post, i will be updating it as i learn along.

• Following a Systematic approach
• Liberal use of Marginalia
• A smart Highlighting system

Retain – what you read

This includes :

• Taking notes
• Staying focused
• Making the book your own
• Integrating the information into existing mental models.
• Quit books that get are useless.
• Spaced repetition of the vital information.

> Life is too short. QUIT what doesn’t resonate.

Implement the retained information

Implementation of information into problem solving ability is knowledge.

There are certain things that i must be kept in attention while processing what you learnt from the books.

Create a checklist of these biases :

• Confirmation bias
  • Which parts of this book am i ignoring ?
  • Does this book reaffirm any of your beliefs or are you just seeing what you want to see ?
  • If you cannot think of a single point in the book that you disagreed with then confirmation bias is likely distorting your reasoning.
• Bayesian thinking
  • What opinions should i change in light of this book ?
  • How can i update my worldview ising information in it?

Add the knowledge/ information to your Common place book or Knowledge management system.

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My reading workflow

Highlight system

Make it consistent across all platforms, from e-books to physical books. Use post it flags to mark passages that you like.