Study Tips: SQ4R Method
There are different variations to this note-taking method, but they all follow the same process. This method is mainly used for taking notes from a text, or a book. SQ4R is an acronym for:
- Survey: This is where you survey any preliminary information. This includes title, preface, chapter introduction, and illustrations to get a general idea of the topic.
- Question: This is where you create a general topic question about the chapter that you could answer later on. Often, you can add the words “what is” in front of the title to create your question.
- Read: This is where you read the text, and try to find the answer to your question.
- Recite: This could include reading certain passages aloud, or closing the book and trying to answer the question without reading the chapter.
- Relate: This is where you might take notes, and reflect on how all of the information comes together.
- Review: This is an opportunity to reflect on the content you have just been focusing on and write a short summary.
For practice, use the following instruction sheet. (You could also choose any instruction sheet that you really need to brush up on, and follow this example.)
- Before reading the sheet, look over the features of the text. The titles are: air compressor, maintaining the air compressor, Pneumatic Fastening Tools, and Operating Pneumatic Tools. There is a diagram containing the features of the air compressor. There is a text box. Read the text box first because it may contain a summary of the most important points.
- Question. In this course, you should be reading to answer a specific question. Perhaps this is an exam question you came across, got wrong, and need to know the answer. Let’s say, in this case, the exam question is:
“When using an air compressor, there are how many dials?”
a) one- indicating the pressure being supplied to the tool
b) two- one indicating the pressure supplied to the tool, and one indicating the ambient air pressure
c) two- one indicating the pressure supplied to the tool, and the other indicating the tank pressure
d) one- indicating the tank pressure
Chapter-A1
Topic 10 – Identify the Compressed Air (Pneumatic) System
The Air Compressor
While cordless tools are quickly taking over the construction trades, pneumatic tools still play a vital role in certain tasks. The source of compressed air, the air compressor, it the motor that drives these tools. Understanding the maintenance and operation of the air compressor is key knowledge a carpenter should possess. The air compressor (pictured right) is equipped with parts that moderate its operation to ensure it is safe for use. It possesses an automatic shutoff that prevents the tanks from being overfilled. It is also equipped with a safety relief valve which releases air past a certain pressure.
There is two pressure gauges situated on the air compressor. One indicates the pressure inside the tank. Typically, the motor will disengage when this reaches 120-130 PSI. The other pressure gauge indicates the pressure that is going to the line and tool. This gauge is equipped with a dial which allows the user to adjust the air pressure going to the tool.
Maintaining the Air Compressor
Typically, the air we breathe contains anywhere from 46-75% relative humidity (water vapour). When air is compressed, the water vapour has a tendency to condense inside the air compression chamber. As a result, liquid water builds up in the tank and, over time, can cause the tank to rust. To remediate this, the air compressor is equipped with a drain cock which allows the tank to be emptied of both compressed air and liquid water. This should be done at the end of each day when the air compressor is put away for storage (both short and long term).
Pneumatic Fastening Tools
There are a variety of fastening tools available for purchase which include:
- Framing strip nailers (spikers) which can hold nails from 2-3 ¼”, typically used for framing
- Coil nailers, typically used for roofing and underlayment applications
- Finishing nailers or brad nailers which fire small pins or brads
- Staplers, which are often used in sheathing applications, both structural and non-structural
When using pneumatic fastening tools, it is important to check that the air compressor is supplying the correct pressure to the tool. This can be adjusted and monitored at the regulator valve. If the required or recommended pressure is unknown, it is good practice to start at a low pressure and work up to an acceptable operation.
Operating Pneumatic Tools
When connecting a pneumatic fastener to the supply line, always point the tool away from people and animals as a misfire can occur when it is connected. Ensure that all parts of the tool are secure and tightened prior to connecting.
To ensure proper operation and maintenance, check the supply line for debris or moisture prior to connection. Always use the proper fasteners the tool is designed for, and oil the tool regularly (two or three drops into the supply coupler with each use).
If the fastening tool experiences a jam, disconnect the tool before servicing. Some tools have a quick release clamp to break jams free. Always follow the manufacturers directions when maintaining tools.
after reading the text you may have found this section:
“There is two pressure gauges situated on the air compressor. One indicates the pressure inside the tank. Typically, the motor will disengage when this reaches 120-130 PSI. The other pressure gauge indicates the pressure that is going to the line and tool. This gauge is equipped with a dial which allows the user to adjust the air pressure going to the tool. “
3. To recite, you may want to:
- write the answer down on paper
- say the answer aloud
- create a flash card
4. To relate, you may want to add this information to your personal glossary, or add the information to some notes you took regarding tools, or add a branch to a mind map you have created regarding tools. Remember, drawing pictures is a great way to remember things. Draw a picture of an air compressor with two gauges on it!
5. Review should happen one day later, and then 3 or 4 days later, and then on a regular schedule up to the exam (perhaps once a week.) Don’t go back to the material on the instruction sheet. Don’t even go back to the notes you took the first time. Go back to step 4- when you related and summarized the information.
