Get an overview of complex topics through accessible sources e.g. video, TV, podcast, simpler book or discussion with friends.
There are tools/apps for:
Great list of educational podcasts to aid research and broaden knowledge.
5 Active Reading Strategies for Textbook Assignments - College Info Geek
Article from Lifehack.
Free downloadable software to use in your browser, on a memory stick or in Windows. Use it to change font, font size or background colour. Read selected text out loud or look up words in the dictionary.
Free downloadable text reader for PC.
Coggle is an online tool for creating and sharing mindmaps. It works online in your browser: there's nothing to download or install.
Free, downloadable Cornell Notes template - this pdf file can be edited so you can type in notes.
Organise notes into notebooks. Add images, sketches, lists and webclips. Access anywhere. Available across a range of platforms.
Cross platform tool for capturing and sharing notes, lists, images and audio clips.
YouTube Video explaining five different methods for taking notes in lectures (but can also apply to notes from reading).
How to quote, paraphrase and summarise sources. Has real examples of students' writing and information about common errors.
A set of freeware apps to help with reading, writing, planning and organisation. Comes with tutorials and can be run from a flash drive. PC only.
Drag and drop or paste text into the box to hear it read out loud. Range of natural voices to choose from. Free version has basic features.
Use Notability to take and organise notes. Can sketch ideas, annotate PDFs, mark-up photos, record lectures, record audio, add images and webclips. Note - has a cost (under £10). Detailed guide here.
Speed reading app for iOS (under £5).
Advice and interactive exercises from the University of Sheffield to improve reading skills.
Free online tool which simpifies English. Go to Settings to customise.
Free online tool to help you develop your reading speed.
How-To Geek's rundown of good text readers and apps (some free versions).
Useful guidance from the University of Leeds.
Import pdf files and annotate them. Cross platform and free.
Free PDF annotator for multiple platforms and devices (including online). Add notes and comments to pdfs. Rotate, reorder and merge several PDFs together.