Choose a purpose for annotating
Gather tools such as a pen, pencil, or sticky notes
Read actively and pay attention to key ideas
Highlight important passages sparingly
Underline main arguments or memorable lines
Write brief notes in the margins
Mark questions, confusions, and reactions
Circle unfamiliar words or important terms
Use symbols consistently for different types of notes
Summarize each chapter or section in a few words
Track themes, characters, and plot developments
Note connections between ideas or events
Record page numbers for important references
Keep annotations clear and concise
Review and revise your notes after reading