Which reading strategy can improve comprehension of dense CARS texts?

• A. Reading quickly without pausing
• B. Summarizing paragraphs in the margins
• C. Rereading each sentence multiple times
• D. Using a highlighter on every line

Answer: (B)

Summarizing paragraphs in the margins can significantly enhance comprehension of dense CARS texts. This strategy actively engages the reader with the material by encouraging them to process the information and distill the main ideas. By writing brief summaries or notes, readers are more likely to internalize the concepts presented, identify key arguments, and understand the structure of the text. This kind of active engagement promotes deeper understanding and retention of the content, which is crucial when navigating complex passages.

In contrast, reading quickly without pausing may lead to superficial understanding and missed important details. Rereading each sentence multiple times could result in inefficiency, causing frustration and fatigue without aiding overall comprehension. Using a highlighter on every line can also be counterproductive, as it may overwhelm the reader with too much highlighted material, making it difficult to discern what is truly significant. Thus, summarizing in the margins stands out as a focused and effective approach to improving comprehension in dense texts.