How to Create an Effective Reading Plan

Did you know that many people feel lost when they first step away from traditional education? The freedom to learn independently can be exhilarating, but it can also leave you wondering where to start.

Feeling Lost

For the first two decades of your life, education is structured and guided. Teachers set the lessons, and the curriculum dictates what you learn. But once you leave that environment, the world of learning opens up, and you suddenly have the freedom to explore whatever interests you. However, this newfound independence can be overwhelming. You might find yourself lost, unsure of how to navigate your own learning journey.

Many people crave a clear structure in their learning. This is why online courses have gained popularity; they provide a roadmap to follow. But what if you could create your own curriculum? Imagine designing a reading plan tailored specifically to your interests and goals. This is the ultimate form of independence, allowing you to take control of your learning journey.

Value of Reading Plans

A reading plan is simply a series of books you choose to read in order to achieve a specific goal. Unlike the rigid curriculums of school, you set the rules. You can create a plan with five books or a hundred, covering any topic you desire. Whether you want to become an expert in a niche subject or gain a basic understanding of a broader topic, the choice is yours.

So, how do you get started? There are two main approaches: you can either follow a pre-made reading plan or create your own from scratch.

Pre-Made Plans

You might think that following someone else's reading plan defeats the purpose of independence. However, it can be a great starting point, especially if you're unsure where to begin. If you find a reading plan that resonates with you, feel free to adapt it to your needs.

One resource I love is a website that compiles various literature charts in a visual format. While some lists may contain odd selections, many are high-quality and cover a wide range of genres and topics. You can explore different categories and find what suits your interests.

Another fantastic resource is Goodreads, where you can browse thousands of curated book lists. If you have a specific interest, like Roman history, you can search for lists that will help you dive deeper into that subject.

Build Your Own

If you're feeling adventurous, creating your own reading plan can be incredibly rewarding. The first step is to define your goals. Ask yourself: What interests me? What do I want to learn more about? Your answers will help you narrow down your focus.

For example, if you're a new parent, you might want to design a reading plan that helps you navigate parenting challenges. Alternatively, if you're looking to expand your knowledge of Eastern history, you can create a plan centered around that topic.

But what if you feel like you don’t have any interests? It’s common to feel this way, but I assure you, your interests are there, even if they’re buried deep. Consider exploring different activities, watching videos, or visiting bookstores to discover what excites you.

Step 1 - Set Goals

Once you have a topic in mind, it’s time to set your goals. This could be as simple as wanting to gain a basic understanding of a subject or as specific as mastering a particular skill. The clearer your goal, the easier it will be to create a focused reading plan.

Step 2 - Decide on Length

Next, think about how long your reading plan should be. If your goal is niche, a smaller list of five to ten books might suffice. However, for broader topics, you’ll likely need a more extensive list. For example, if you want to understand economics, a list of ten to twenty books could provide a solid foundation.

Step 3 - Research Books

Now comes the fun part: finding the books! Start with a simple Google search for "best books on [your topic]." This will yield numerous lists and recommendations.

You can also use AI tools like ChatGPT to help you generate a list of books. Just be sure to provide clear prompts about your goals and the context of your reading plan.

Step 4 - Refine Choices

After gathering your initial list, it’s time to refine your choices. Use Goodreads to check the descriptions and reviews of each book. This will help you gauge whether a book aligns with your goals.

As you review each book, take notes on its relevance and difficulty level. This will allow you to curate a list that truly serves your learning objectives.

Step 5 - Order the Books

Once you have your final list, arrange the books in an order that makes sense to you. For instance, if you’re a beginner in a subject, start with easier reads and gradually progress to more complex material.

Some Tips to Help You Succeed

• Stay Flexible: Remember, this is your reading plan. If a book doesn’t resonate with you, feel free to drop it. There’s no need to force yourself to read something that doesn’t excite you.

• Gamify Your Experience: To keep your reading journey engaging, consider creating checklists or tracking your progress. This can provide a sense of accomplishment as you move through your list.

• Embrace Variety: Don’t feel chained to your reading plan. If you need a break, read something outside your list. This will help prevent burnout and keep your reading experience enjoyable.

Creating a reading plan can be a transformative experience, allowing you to take charge of your learning journey. So, what are you waiting for? Start crafting your own reading plan today! What topics are you excited to explore?