For text book chapters, I take notes while I read, using their subtitles, etc, as an outline. If the chapter has a summary at the end, I'll also copy that over right before the exam.

For plays and poetry like Dante and Homer, I would read a section, then read the spark notes for that section online just to clarify what I just read. Spark notes are great when used in addition to, and not replacing, the original work.

Also, if you're going to be reading a lot, break it down into chunks. If you're reading 100 pages a week, read 20 pages each day for 5 days. That gives you a catch-up day if you get behind and a day to not worry about reading at all. I also suggest reading some where comfy, but not TOO comfy...