Thread by @AlexAndBooks_

I've learned a TON about how to read better from @naval.

But...here are 3 things I think he got wrong.

(thread) 🧵

1) Not taking notes while reading

"I don’t take notes. I’m reading because I like to read, not to learn." –Naval

As a reader, you should be taking notes. Here's why:

Taking notes keeps you engaged with the book (you want to be an active reader, not a passive one).

It's a way to reflect on the new knowledge you discovered.

It makes it easy to quickly identify the key lessons you learned the next time you pick up the book.

Solution:

Always read with a pen.

• When you come across a quote/lesson that blows your mind, write the page # on the front cover so you can easily find it next time.
• After you finish a book, write down the key lessons on the back cover so you can always review them later.

2) Reading 10-20 books at a time

"At any given time, I am reading somewhere between 10 and 20 books." –Naval

You should be reading multiple books at once, but 10-20 books are way too many.

Ever try to keep up with 10+ TV shows at once?

You start to mix up the characters, plot, and everything else. It's information overload.

The same goes for books.

By the time you go back to your book #1, you'll have forgotten what you've read or confused it with another book.

Solution:

Read 2-3 books at a time.

• A light book that you read when you're tired or want something more relaxing
• A heavy book that you read when you have more energy or want an information-dense book
• A bonus book (ebook or audiobook) so you always have a book with you

3) Avoiding business and self-help books

"I avoid the whole business and self-help category because you generally have one good idea and it’s buried in hundreds or thousands of pages and lots of anecdotes.” –Naval

You need multiple stories for people to remember a lesson.

Yes, most business and self-help books could be shorter. BUT part of the reason they're so long is that people need stories to remember the book's lessons.

I could summarize Jordan Peterson's 400+ page book in a page, but if I did you wouldn't remember any of the lessons.

But if I say lobsters fighting or pet medicine...

Then you'll remember Jordan's lessons such as "Stand up straight with your shoulders back" and "Treat yourself like someone you are responsible for helping.

We remember stories over facts, that's why we need multiple examples.

Solution:

Give business and self-help books a fair chance.

• Business and self-help books can change your life.
• If you feel that you understand the lesson the author is trying to make and that they're getting repetitive, then it's okay to skip ahead in the book.

PS:

This is in no way a hit piece or an attack on Naval. I highly respect him and agree with 99% of his advice.

In fact, here are more reading tips from him:

https://twitter.com/AlexAndBooks_/status/1302811435760783362