When & Where to Highlight

Highlighting is a common study technique used to emphasize important information in textbooks, notes, or other materials. But when and where should you highlight to maximize its effectiveness?

When to Highlight

Research shows that highlighting can be most effective when used sparingly. Aim to highlight no more than 10-15% of the text to avoid diminishing its impact. Focus on key concepts, definitions, and main ideas rather than every detail.

Where to Highlight

Strategic placement of highlights can enhance retention and comprehension. Instead of randomly marking passages, consider highlighting at the beginning and end of paragraphs, near headings, or around key terms. This can help create a visual hierarchy of information.

Additionally, color coding can be a useful technique to organize and categorize highlighted information. Assign different colors to different types of content, such as definitions, examples, or important dates, to make it easier to review later.

Remember, the goal of highlighting is to draw attention to essential information and aid in the learning process. By following these guidelines on when and where to highlight, you can make the most of this study tool.