Reading books as a student isn't just about flipping pages—it's about diving deep and making the most of every word. I always start by previewing the book: skimming the table of contents, chapter summaries, and any highlighted sections to get a roadmap. Active reading is key—I underline or jot down notes in margins, focusing on themes, arguments, and questions the text raises. If it's dense material, I break it into chunks and summarize each part in my own words afterward. For fiction, I pay attention to character arcs and symbolism, often revisiting passages to catch details I missed. Finally, discussing the book with peers or writing a short reflection helps cement my understanding and uncover new perspectives.