What is skillful reading?

Skillful reading involves an active and engaged approach to comprehending material. Andy Matuschak likens it to an experienced rock climber who can navigate a challenging wall because they recognize subtle notches that serve as footholds. Similarly, a skillful reader critically engages with the text by asking and trying to answer questions, leading to a deeper understanding.

Dwarkesh Patel discusses two models of failure in retaining material: forgetting it after understanding or never comprehending it in the first place. Skillful readers habitually identify and address their own confusion as they read, unlike undemanding readers who passively skim through text without grasping its meaning 1.