Reading a times can be difficult , there are some of us that can read for hours without getting tired but still understand while there are some that can’t read for long because if the reading is too long, they loose concentration ,therefore they won’t be able to assimilate what they have read.

Now lets check out the few points that will enable one to read and still understand.

1 Read (and attempt) past exam papers; This advice is often dished out, but many either don’t bother, or don’t take it seriously enough. When you do read through the papers, see how the questions are worded and try to grasp what is being asked of you. Look for any recurring themes across past papers so you have an idea of what to expect.
2 Use acronyms:acronyms are words formed from the initial letters of other words (e.g United State of America; USA, United Nations; UN). This is a powerful tool for you if used effectively.
3 Create Images: ever wondered why you remember every single detail in a movies, e.g vampire diaries? compared to when you read,its because of the images. creating visual imagery is useful in remembering objects and written pieces. Try creating a link(mental) between the image(s) with your reading subjects.

read more detail from source http://tinique.com/6-ways-to-read-and-understand/