In the SQ3R study method, what is the correct order of steps?

• A. Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review
• B. Read, Survey, Question, Review, Recite
• C. Question, Survey, Read, Recite, Review
• D. Survey, Read, Question, Recite, Review

Answer: (A)

Starting with surveying the material gives you a quick lay of the land—the headings, subheadings, bold terms, figures, and summaries. This overview helps you build a mental framework and sets expectations for what you’re about to learn, making it easier to organize new information.

Next, form questions from those headings and subheadings. Turning them into questions gives your reading a purpose and turns you into an active seeker of answers, which boosts focus and engagement.

Then read with the goal of answering those specific questions. Reading in this goal-directed way helps you notice the details that matter and makes the material more memorable because you’re looking for meaning rather than passively absorbing words.

After reading, recite or summarize the key points in your own words. This retrieval-like step strengthens memory and checks your understanding, because you’re actively recalling and rephrasing the material rather than simply rereading.

Finally, review what you’ve read to reinforce learning, fill in any gaps, and connect ideas across the section. Review solidifies retention and helps integrate the new information with what you already know.

Other sequences disrupt this flow. For example, reading before forming questions reduces your active-search focus; surveying after reading misses the initial orientation that makes reading purpose-driven; and placing reading before question formation makes the reading less targeted and harder to retain.