How to Effectively Read Digital Textbooks

This topic is relevant not only for geography students but for nearly all academic competitors. Valuable textbooks that you can find online are often unavailable in school libraries. To start, here are some recommended sources for study materials:

Many geography competitors are well aware of these resources, but as the saying goes, “Repetition is the mother of learning.”

As you may have noticed, most digital textbooks aren’t part of the standard curriculum in Kazakhstan, so you’ll often be reading them on your screen. Unfortunately, due to modern digital culture, most of us associate screens with relaxation, entertainment, and downtime. This makes it harder to concentrate effectively on studying. Not to mention other disadvantages of digital materials—there’s no tactile contact, no sense of turning pages, and digital reading can have serious effects on eyesight. Below are strategies to minimize these downsides and improve your digital study habits.

1. Take Breaks at Regular Intervals

We discussed interval-based rest in the early articles on preparation. Don’t spend countless hours on low-productivity reading sessions that strain your eyes. Instead, focus on quality “sprints”—study sessions with personalized intervals of preparation and rest that feel right for you. This approach can help prevent burnout, preserve your eyesight, and keep you motivated. If possible, do some eye exercises or quick physical stretches during breaks to counteract the effects of prolonged screen time.

2. Follow Basic Ergonomics

This may sound obvious—correct posture, moderate screen distance, time limits—but it’s essential. Unfortunately, these fundamentals are often presented in an overly academic tone that misses the realities of modern digital habits. In addition to good posture, basic back exercises and stretches can help keep your upper back and spine healthy, countering the effects of a sedentary lifestyle.

3. Shift Your Focus from Quantity to Quality

When setting study goals, many students prioritize quantity over quality, such as aiming to “Finish 30 pages in one hour.” This can trap you in an endless cycle of revisiting the same topics. Instead, reframe your goals with an emphasis on understanding the material, like “Learn about Kazakhstan’s glaciology and glacial landforms today.” This shift promotes a focus on deep learning and reduces the need for repetition, ultimately lessening strain on your eyes and improving overall productivity.

4. Create a Study-Conducive Environment

If you use your workspace for other activities, like eating or relaxing, it may be harder to focus there. If possible, try studying in a different place. When that isn’t feasible, refresh your workspace by tidying it, rearranging items, or even repositioning your desk. A refreshed space can help you establish a mental association between your device and productive study sessions.

Thank you for reading, and see you in the next issue!