10 Reading Tips for Beginners (That Actually Work)

Simple, practical tips to help you start reading more, and actually enjoy it.

I have been wanting to write this reading tips for beginners article for a while, but I never got to it. I think after reading 56 books in a year and a half, it is warranted. Reading wasn’t always second nature to me, but once I figured out what worked, it became a joy. If you’re looking to read more, or just start at all, here are a few tips I've learned from reading.

1. Find a genre you like.

Oftentimes when people tell me they don't like to read, what I hear is you haven’t found the right genre yet. There is a genre out there for you. Find a genre you like; then, you will start to love reading.

2. Get a library card.

 I love to buy new books, but I quickly realized that it was becoming expensive. I only buy the books I would love to read more than once. Everything else, I borrow from the library. Local libraries offer so many resources. Make the local library your best friend TODAY!

3. Make a goal

Make a goal for this month. When I started my reading journey last year, my goal was to read 1 book per month which would equal 12 books for the year. But I ended up reading more books per month. But my goal remained to read 1 book per month. Whether I read 6 books for a month, I still had the same goal. This year my goal is to read 40 books. I am at 19; I am a little behind schedule, but we will get there.

4. Commit to a time.

One of the things people usually ask me is "how did you read 37 books last year and where do you find the time?" My answer may sound cliché, but it is true. I make the time because reading is important to me. Once reading becomes as important to you, you will make the time. We indeed make time for the things that are important to us.

5. Start small. Consistency over quantity.

Once you find a genre and you commit to a time, start small and be consistent. If you haven't read in a while, I’d suggest starting 15-30 minutes a day. When I committed to reading last year, I read for 30 minutes every night before bed. Now, I can read for 5 hours straight. Please don't start with a readathon.

6. Create a reading space.

It is crucial that you read in a space that helps you read. I prefer to light up a candle and read on my couch. I only read in bed if I am in a reading slump or I'm sad reading (I usually read novels when I'm feeling down). It is the same as watching TV. I also love reading at coffee shops. I read faster at coffee shops. The more you read and try different spaces, the faster you will find what works for you.

7. Put your book where you can see it.

Because I mostly read on my couch, I usually leave my book on my coffee table. It is so easy for me to see the book and remember to read when it is right in front of me.

8. Commit to finishing the book you pick up. 

You must commit to reading the next book you pick up. That is the one way to build your reading habit. Once you get to the groove of things you can put the ones you don't like down.

9. Join a book group or follow a book page.

Once I started reading, I started looking for Facebook groups to like. There are so many. Once you find your genre, I would suggest you like a page that shares those kind of content. Before you know it, all you will think about will be books.

10. Befriend people with similar interest.

This will almost happen automatically. Once reading becomes a habit and part of who you are, you will slowly gravitate towards readers. Until then, seek them. We've never met? It's okay let's be friends and talk about books!

Bonus tip: keep track of your reading by using an app.

In January 2024, I wrote an article when I started reading, click here to read it. Reading has truly changed my life one page at a time. I hope it can do the same for you. I am proof that these tips work! If you think I should write an article with recommendations, let me know in the comment below.

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Xoxo,

DD