What does critical reading involve?

Critical reading involves a deep level of engagement with a text that goes beyond simply understanding the words on the page. It requires the reader to examine, analyze, and evaluate the writer's message thoroughly. This process allows the reader to think critically about the content, considering the author's purpose, the strengths and weaknesses of the arguments presented, the effectiveness of the writing style, and the overall implications of the message.

Engaging in critical reading also means questioning the text, making connections to other knowledge or experiences, and determining the significance of the ideas being presented. This reflective approach fosters a more comprehensive understanding and allows the reader to form their own informed opinions rather than just absorbing information passively.

In contrast, merely summarizing the text without analysis or reading only for main ideas does not meet the criteria of critical reading, as these methods do not involve the rigorous evaluation and thoughtful consideration of the material.