Reading English books has always been a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, especially when delving into complex subjects that lack Japanese translations. Recently, I’ve discovered a method that makes this process not only manageable but incredibly enjoyable. With a combination of Kindle, ChatGPT, and my Mac, I’ve been able to navigate difficult English texts and immerse myself in their unique worldviews, even for books that have yet to be translated. Here’s a breakdown of how I’m reading UNIT X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War and why this method feels like the future of language learning.
Step 1: Choosing the Book on Kindle
The first step is selecting an English book that captivates me. I decided on UNIT X, a thought-provoking book that explores the intersection of technology and modern warfare, mainly because it touches on themes relevant to our technological age and has yet to be translated into Japanese. Reading it in English offers me a direct view into this topic without waiting for a translation.
Step 2: Setting Up Kindle and ChatGPT on My Mac
With Kindle and ChatGPT open side by side on my Mac, I can work seamlessly between reading and understanding. Kindle provides the text, while ChatGPT serves as my personal translator and guide. It’s the ideal setup for tackling books that might otherwise feel daunting.
Step 3: Screenshot and Translate
As I progress through the book, I take screenshots of the pages and share them with ChatGPT, following a specific routine that’s been incredibly helpful:
- Detailed Typing: ChatGPT types out the English text, highlighting any advanced vocabulary or phrases.
- Bilingual Glossary: For challenging expressions, ChatGPT includes Japanese explanations in parentheses, making it easier to understand and retain new vocabulary.
- Chapter Summaries: For the first three chapters, I also get Japanese summaries, giving me a clearer understanding of each section before moving forward.
Why Focus on the First Three Chapters?
The introductory chapters of any book tend to be the most challenging. They set the stage, introduce complex concepts, and often include technical jargon. By using ChatGPT to work through these sections, I can establish a solid foundation that allows me to read faster and with more confidence as I progress.
Embracing Technology for a More Enjoyable Reading Experience
Reading English books no longer feels like a struggle. Instead, it has become an empowering journey where technology bridges the gap between languages. Thanks to this method, I can approach even untranslated books with enthusiasm, knowing that I have the tools to make sense of them.
In the age of digital innovation, this approach to language learning is a glimpse of what’s possible. With every book I read, I feel one step closer to mastering English and expanding my knowledge on topics that intrigue me. UNIT X is just the beginning – with Kindle, ChatGPT, and a bit of determination, there’s no limit to the books I can explore.
I’m especially looking forward to reviewing this book once I’ve finished – stay tuned for a full breakdown and my thoughts on UNIT X!
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