7 Simple Tips to Get better at Reading Documentation

Reading documentation is challenging.

It may contain jargons that you don't know. Or written in such a way which makes it hard to understand the information.

Given these challenges, here are 7 tips on reading documentation.

1. Know your goal

Have a clear understanding of what you want to learn from it.

This will help you to easily spot the sections that are important to you. Avoid getting stuck on anything that is not relevant.

Be more selective and intentional, to make sure you make the best use of your time.

2. Use Search functionality

Use the search functionality to land on the topic you are interested in.

3. Scan first

Before you dive in, get an overview of the content.

Quickly scan the headings, subheadings, and bolded text. This will give you a good idea of the main topics discussed.

Then decide which sections you want to focus on.

4. Read actively

Engage with the content.

Ask yourself questions about what you are reading, and try to summarize the key points in your own words. Make connections between the content and what you already know.

You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the material.

5. Focus on examples

Examples are great to understand the material faster.

Closely look at the syntax and structure of the code. This will give you a better understanding of the underlying concepts.

6. Cross-reference

Look for cross-references to other parts of the documentation.

It provides additional context and insight. Doing so will be helpful in gaining a better understanding of the information.

7. Ask questions

If you don't understand something, ask in online forums or communities.

Keep reading documentation with these tips in mind. You will improve with time.