How to Read a Paper

How to Read a Paper

S Keshav · 2007 (View Paper → )

Read papers in three passes:

• The First Pass:
• Title, Abstract, Introduction: Get a general idea of the paper’s topic.
• Section and Subsection Headings: Understand the structure.
• Conclusion: Grasp the paper’s results.
• Skim References: See the related works.
• The Second Pass:
• Figures, Diagrams, and Other Illustrations: Focus on visuals.
• Reading, But Not Necessarily Understanding, Mathematical Content: Highlight key equations.
• Mark Relevant Unclear Points: Note areas needing clarification.
• The Third Pass:
• Understanding: Grasp the paper’s content in detail.
• Identify Assumptions: Note the underlying assumptions.
• Critically Think: Evaluate the paper’s validity and contributions.