Biggest impact on preparing me to read

When I am about to read and essay or story I like to read the biography of the author, if there is one. Because it usually gives me an understanding on were the author is coming from and why they have stated they points they had. I also like to look at dates, and the title of the story. I think that titles can be very symbolic, and if you think about what the title really means you get a better understanding of what is to come.I have learned so much so far especially how to analyse a story before you even read it. I think these exercises really help me with being a better reader.