The primary purpose of writing while reading is to enhance comprehension and retention of the material. By actively engaging with the text through writing, readers are more likely to absorb and remember the information presented. This practice encourages deeper processing of the content, as it requires the reader to summarize, reflect, and connect new information to existing knowledge. According to a study by Pressley and Afflerbach (1995), students who engage in self-expressive writing during reading demonstrate improved comprehension and retention compared to those who do not.

Data from various research studies support the effectiveness of writing while reading. For instance, a meta-analysis by Duke and Pearson (2002) found that students who engaged in summarizing and note-taking activities during reading showed significant gains in comprehension and retention. Additionally, a study by Kiewra et al. (2005) revealed that students who wrote about the main ideas of a text were better able to recall the information later on. These findings suggest that writing while reading is a valuable strategy for promoting academic success and lifelong learning.

The process of writing while reading involves several cognitive processes that contribute to improved comprehension. First, summarizing the text requires readers to identify the main ideas and supporting details, which helps in understanding the overall structure and purpose of the material. Second, reflective writing allows readers to connect the new information to their own experiences and knowledge, fostering deeper understanding and retention. Finally, the act of writing can serve as a form of self-assessment, enabling readers to monitor their understanding and identify areas that require further clarification.

In conclusion, the purpose of writing while reading is to enhance comprehension and retention by engaging readers in active processing of the text. This practice encourages summarization, reflection, and self-assessment, leading to improved academic performance and lifelong learning. Research findings consistently demonstrate the effectiveness of writing while reading as a strategy for promoting comprehension and retention, making it a valuable tool for educators and learners alike.