Do you have this while reading?

[StarStruck]

Sometimes I'm reading something and I noticed that I didn't pick anything up. 

I thought this could be a concentration problem but it could also be a not being present problem. 

I usually visualize what is being said and then it usually clicks better but this technique is not full proof.  

[herghly]

Take notes and write a summary at the end.  When I finish reading a book I answer the following question (taken from Leo)

How will my behavior change from what I learnt in this book?

[Carl-Richard]

This dude has got something to say about that.

[Moon]

16 hours ago, StarStruck said:

I thought this could be a concentration problem but it could also be a not being present problem. 

Both

A meditation practice should help (and less social media etc use that are designed to reduce attention span) 

[tesla]

Yes, and it's because you're not focusing. Look up Jim Kwik's speed reading tips. You can read way faster and retain more. Also do meditation to train your ability to focus (The Mind Illuminated is best for this in my experience)

[Waves]

I notice this happens to me when I'm not really interested in what I'm about to read but I read it to get somewhere, like finishing the book, or because "reading" is on my to do list. It's also a problem that comes with too much stimulation from other things.

A very good way to retain things is reading stuff you're actually curious about, instead of "good to know" information. Being engaged with what you read makes you more focused during the activity. Your mind will elaborate and reflect more on what you read, making it stick more easily.

[bejapuskas]

Choose the books that really are interesting to you, use your time wisely, there are infinite things to do so just pick the ones that resonate the best.