Which method might best aid a student's comprehension of a complex text?

The best method to aid a student's comprehension of a complex text is skimming for keywords initially. This approach allows students to get a general sense of the content, structure, and main ideas of the text without getting bogged down in the details right away. By identifying keywords and phrases, learners can create mental connections and form predictions about the contents, which sets a foundation for deeper understanding as they engage with the text in more detail later.

Skimming enables students to focus on critical themes and concepts, making subsequent reading more efficient and meaningful. Once they have an overview, they can return to the text to explore specific sections that require more attention, thus enhancing their overall comprehension. This strategy is especially effective in navigating complex materials where the main ideas might be obscured by intricate language or extensive detail.