# The reading-question triage card

Not every question deserves an immediate search. Some questions block comprehension, some improve discussion, and some are interesting only after the book has made its case. This triage card decides what to do without turning reading into constant lookup.

## Classify the question

Save the page where the question appears, then choose one class:

| Class | Test | Action |
|---|---|---|
| **Blocking** | I cannot follow the next step without an answer. | Check a reliable source now. |
| **Load-bearing** | The book's conclusion depends on this being true. | Mark it for verification after the section. |
| **Interpretive** | The text supports more than one reading. | Keep alternatives for discussion. |
| **Expansive** | The answer would extend beyond the book's task. | Park it for later exploration. |

## Run the smallest useful check

- For a blocking question, look up only the missing definition or context.
- For a load-bearing question, identify the source type that could verify it.
- For an interpretive question, write two plausible readings before searching commentary.
- For an expansive question, finish the chapter before choosing whether to pursue it.

Write one next action:

> This question is __________, so I will ______________________________.

## Review rule

At the chapter end, close questions the text answered, keep load-bearing questions tied to their page, and delete expansive questions that no longer matter. Curiosity is preserved by giving each question the right time and evidence burden.

## Boundaries

This is a personal reflection aid, not research, fact-checking, academic review, medical or legal advice. Use primary or authoritative sources for consequential verification.

## Optional iPhone workflow

I am the developer of **Reading Journal: TabMap**, an iPhone and iPad companion for physical-book readers. It lets a reader save a page, a reason such as **Question** or **Discuss**, and an intensity, with an optional private note. The free version includes one complete book map; no account is required, and books, markers, labels, and optional notes stay on the device.

[View Reading Journal: TabMap on the App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/reading-journal-tabmap/id6796663483)

Campaign marker: `day12-strong-distribution`