4 Ways to Incorporate Reading 1 Book Using 2 Formats

This is an idea I had while finishing up one of the chapters in Helen Castor's Joan of Arc: A History. While I own the physical book, I decided to borrow the audiobook from Libby so that I could listen along as I read and pace my own reading. (I know that sometimes, I unintentionally skip over things as I read, so using the audiobook as well helped with pacing so I wouldn't accidentally skip something.)

As I finished the chapter, it got me thinking. What are some ways to incorporate 2 book formats while reading 1 book? There are obvious ways - like using an audiobook and a physical book at the same time for pacing, as mentioned above. However, I wanted to go over a couple of other ways.

In most of the ways I point out, the physical book and ebook can be interchanged with whatever format you have. This is why I would put "other format" or "physical book or ebook." I also do bring up audiobooks a lot as well, because they can be so useful if you don't have time to sit and read a physical book or ebook. I also do recommend stopping at the end of chapters, rather than in the middle, to make the transition from one format to another easier.

Tomorrow, I'll be going over how to incorporate reading one book using all 3 book formats, because this can be done. Here are 4 ways to incorporate reading 1 book in 2 formats.

Way 1: Use the ebook or audiobook while eating or drinking, and use the physical book when you're away from book-damaging substances (food, tea, etc.).

If you're not too messy, then you can definitely read your physical book as you eat or drink. However, if it's a substance that can be damaging to the pages, or if it's a crumbly snack, or if you tend to be messy, it may be best to use the ebook or audiobook formats.

Way 2: Use the audiobook while doing things - chores, exercising, or taking a bath/shower - and use the physical book or ebook while you're sitting relaxing.

I often listen to audiobooks as I'm doing my morning routine, walking, or hiking. On a walk or hike, I tend to use earphones (only 1/2 plugged in, though) so my audiobook doesn't disturb anyone who may be around me. However, using an audiobook as you do things that don't require a lot of mental capacity, along with a physical book or ebook during free time, can help you get through the book quicker.

Way 3: Use the audiobook to give your eyes a rest from the physical book or ebook (or vice versa).

It can be difficult to look at a physical book or ebook for extended periods of time. If your eyes feel the need for a break, switch to your audiobook. You can always do this the other way, where if your ears need a break, you can switch to your physical book or ebook.

Way 4: Use both the audiobook and the other format you have (physical book or ebook) at the same time if you're not at home. (Use headphones in this case, though.)

Using the audiobook along with your physical book or ebook when you're not at home can help you focus in on the book a bit better. I find that doing this helps me cut out unnecessary distractions.