http://ccr.sigcomm.org/online/files/p83-keshavA.pdf
The three-pass approach
- Get a general idea of the paper
- Grasp the paperās content, not details
- Understand the paper in depth
First Pass (5-10 minutes)
Read the title, abstract, and introduction carefully. Look at section headings and skim the conclusions. This gives you a high-level understanding of the paperās main contributions and approach.
Second Pass (1 hour)
Examine the figures, diagrams, and tables in detail - these often contain the key findings. Read with more attention but skip complex formulae or technical details. Mark key points and write down questions. Focus on understanding:
- What problem are they solving?
- What are their main methods and results?
- Are the claims well-supported by evidence?
Third Pass (1-4 hours)
Read everything carefully, including technical details. Try to:
- Reconstruct the paperās key arguments from memory
- Identify assumptions and limitations
- Think about alternative approaches
- Note any gaps in methodology or reasoning