The Difference between “Intensive”, “Extensive”, and “Critical” Reading

Reading is an exclusive activity that humans do and its significance relies in enriching our mind and giving us a more mature understanding of different matters. Although reading is beneficial in general, we should take into account the different types of reading as each type shapes how we comprehend.

#1 Intensive Reading

This is an academic type which includes reading in detail. You cannot only read for entertainment. On the contrary, you need to gain a deeper understanding of what is written. You must have a purpose such as understanding the topic, learning new vocabulary, or writing a similar piece. You can apply intensive reading on articles, magazines, newspapers, books, or reports. But, keep in mind that to develop intensive reading you need to break down the reading process into three stages:

1- Pre-reading?in which you use your knowledge to understand the topic.

2- Reading?in which you get engrossed in learning the details and taking notes.

3- Post-reading?in which you have to put your thoughts in order and recap what you have read.

#2 Extensive Reading

It stands in contrast to the intensive reading as you read for pleasure. Extensive reading does not put you under the pressure of “I must learn something” within a certain time span. Although, it is reading for fun, it is useful and can be used in the learning process. I mean when we read any piece, we subconsciously learn something that will stick in our mind. Therefore, even if it is reading for enjoyment, it is still a source of gaining knowledge. Short stories, periodicals, poetry, novels, and columns can be good sources for extensive reading.

#3 Critical Reading

It is slow, yet attentive and thoughtful reading which includes examining the text and the information demonstrated. This type requires thinking critically, asking questions, analyzing the text, and assessing strengths and weaknesses. To read critically, you should have the purpose of evaluating the text and you can do this by:

1- Inferring?the implicit messages between lines and checking if there is bias towards a certain view. You can do this by a prior search on the background of the author.

2- Rereading?the text more than once will make the picture clearer, especially complex parts that you might not fully understand at first reading.

3- Highlighting or marking?certain parts of the text is similar to using a microscope or magnifying glasses. It is helpful in case you may refer back to a certain part.

4- Asking questions?such as: who is the author? What is the message? Is it a fact or opinion? What is implied? Is it a reliable resource? will help form a clear thought on the topic and consequently reach a reasoned conclusion.

The bottom line is that, although the three types differ in the reading process, they are beneficial in learning and understanding.