1. Start with the Title

Begin by reading the title carefully. Identify the most important word or phrase in the title, as this often hints at the central focus of the paper. This keyword will guide you in understanding the main topic and novelty of the research.

2. Read the Abstract with Purpose

Once you’ve identified the key term, move on to the abstract. The abstract is a condensed summary of the paper, typically outlining its objective, methodology, and key findings. Pay close attention to any mention of novel contributions—this is where the authors highlight what makes their work unique or different from previous research.

3. Jump to the Conclusion

After reading the abstract, skip ahead to the conclusion. The conclusion section usually summarizes the key takeaways, findings, and the broader impact of the work. By reading this, you can gain a clearer understanding of what the researchers have actually accomplished.

4. Decide If the Paper Is Worth Your Time

At this stage, you need to evaluate whether the paper aligns with your research interests. Ask yourself:

  • Is the topic relevant to my field of study or work?
  • Does the paper introduce an idea, method, or insight that could benefit my research?

If the answer is no, don’t hesitate to move on to another paper. Given the vast number of papers published regularly, it’s crucial to focus on those that provide real value to your work.

5. If Relevant, Dive Deeper into the Paper

If the paper seems important and relevant, now is the time to read it in more detail. As you go through the content, focus on:

  • The exact problem the authors are addressing.
  • The approach they use to solve it
  • What makes their method novel compared to existing work.
  • What are the cons of author’s proposed method.