I suggest reading the classic "How to Read a Book" by Mortimer Adler and Charles Van Doren
http://www.amazon.com/How-Read-Book-Touchstone-book/dp/06712...
http://www.amazon.com/How-Read-Book-Touchstone-book/dp/06712...
Great suggestion antpicnic. I consider this book to be the foundation of my higher education. Seriously, by not using the methods of this book, you'll always be a tier lower than your potential.