Zhu Xi's six reading methods are step by step, careful reading, modest swimming, self-observation, tight and hard work, respect and perseverance.
1. Step by step
Step by step means reading from easy to difficult, from shallow to deep, from near to far, and you can't be anxious or slow. Learning is hard, and it is necessary to accumulate bit by bit to achieve something. Therefore, all scholars must have a persistent spirit of doing research. You can't read half a book today, and read another book tomorrow, and only read a half. What should be done is not clear before, so don't expect after.
2. Read carefully
If you want to read a book, you should not only be able to memorize it, but also know the contents of the book like you said it from your heart, so that you can gain something. That is to say, reading should be done not only by mouth, but also by heart. Mouth to recite, hand to copy, heart to think carefully.
3. swim with an open mind
You should respect the original work and find out the original intention. If there is any doubt, even though it is said by sages, we must be more careful. Naturally, it means peace, clear reason and down-to-earth. There is a basis for moving, and there is no danger of self-deception. This is the style of study that should be sought for truth.
4. Look at yourself
Only by calmly reading sentences and meaning, and experiencing the reality of practicing, then calm down and understand, and gradually see the meaning. Not only that, but also you must use the truth in the book to know your daily life practice. Anyone who studies must focus on his own daily practice. If you experience its territory, you will know better, not the meaning of the day before.
5. Hold tight and exert oneself
According to Zhu Xi, holding tight and exerting oneself means reading with a resolute and brave spirit. When you say that you want to study, you must not be half-hearted. Reading is reading, and you can't be false. It's not a casual joke, but a very serious and sacred thing, and you can't tolerate any carelessness. This aspect is about the enthusiasm of reading.
6. Keeping respect and ambition
Keeping respect and ambition is not only an important method of Zhu Xi's moral cultivation, but also his most important reading method. The method of writing is not expensive, but the essence is based on respect and ambition, which is not easy. It stems from setting up a lofty and clear ambition and noble goal, and persisting in striving to achieve this ambition and goal with tenacious perseverance for a long time.