What the I PICK method is
I PICK is a simple memory aid that teachers use to help young readers choose “good-fit” books, meaning books that are neither too hard nor too easy and that match their interests. It is widely associated with the Daily 5 literacy routine, and it appears on posters and bookmarks in many classrooms. The idea is to give children a short checklist they can run through on their own, so they become independent in choosing what to read.
The five steps
Each letter stands for a prompt:
- I: I choose a book. The reader, not an adult, picks the book. Ownership of the choice is central to the method.
- P: Purpose. Why do I want to read this? It might be for fun, to learn about a topic, to follow a series or to find an answer to a question.
- I: Interest. Does this topic, story or author appeal to me? Interest keeps readers going when the text becomes challenging.
- C: Comprehend. Do I understand what I am reading? If the sentences make sense and I can retell what happened, it is likely a fit.
- K: Know. Do I know most of the words? If too many are unfamiliar, the book may be too hard for now.
A book that passes all five checks is a good fit for independent reading.
Using I PICK with a child at home
- Visit the library or bookshelf together and let the child pick a few books.
- Ask the I PICK questions out loud, one by one, in a relaxed way.
- Have the child read a page and tell you what happened.
- Check unfamiliar words. A couple per page is typically fine, and many more may signal frustration.
- Keep a “not yet” pile for books that are too hard, and revisit later. For a stage-by-stage view, see why age-appropriate books matter.
Avoid turning it into a test. If the child loves a book that fails a step, such as a favourite picture book, let them read it anyway. Enjoyment is the aim, as discussed in our guide to promoting reading for pleasure.
Using I PICK in a classroom
- Teach the steps at the start of the year with a model lesson, thinking aloud as you test a book. Our guide to introducing a book to students has previewing routines that fit alongside it.
- Display an anchor chart or give out bookmarks as a reminder.
- Have students “test out” the books in their book bins and sort them into good-fit and not-yet piles.
- Offer a small, curated selection to students who feel overwhelmed. Teachers who write about helping students find a book often suggest getting to know each reader, encouraging them to experiment with new genres and using book talks to introduce titles.
- Re-teach in small groups for students who still struggle with selection.
A good fit supports fluency and comprehension during independent reading time, and it avoids boredom from texts that are too easy.
Pairing it with the five finger test
The five finger test is a quick check of the “Know” step. Open to a page, start reading, and count unknown words on your fingers. Fewer than two often suggests it is easy, two or three suggests a good fit, and five or more suggests it may be too hard. Treat the numbers as rough guidance. We explain the test in more detail in our piece on books versus the internet.
When to ignore the rules
I PICK is a guide, not a law. There are good reasons to break it:
- A child is very interested in a topic and wants to read a harder book, ideally with support.
- A reader wants a comforting, easy re-read.
- A book is being read aloud together.
- A reader with a different learning profile needs an adapted approach.
Flexibility keeps reading enjoyable.
Adults can use it too
The same questions work for adult readers: What is my purpose? Does it interest me? Do I follow it? Is the language comfortable? Adult readers can add a trial period before they commit. A popular guideline is to give a book about 50 pages, though many people shorten that if it is not working, and some adjust it by age. Reviews can also help you decide, and we explain how in why book reviews matter for readers.
Related questions
What are 5 books everyone should read? There is no agreed list, and tastes differ. A better approach is to choose books that suit your purpose and interest, and to ask librarians or friends for suggestions.
What is the 50 page rule? A guideline that suggests giving a book roughly 50 pages before deciding to stop. It is flexible.
Does reading lower stress? Some small studies have suggested reading can help people relax, but results vary and it is not a medical treatment. If you are concerned about stress or anxiety, speak to a health professional.
What does Elon Musk say about reading? He is often quoted on the topic, but quotes online are not always accurate. If it matters for an essay, check a reliable primary source.
FAQ
What does I PICK stand for? I choose a book, Purpose, Interest, Comprehend, Know.
What age is it for? It is mostly used in primary and middle school, but the ideas apply more widely.
What is a good-fit book? One that a reader can read with understanding and interest, and that is neither frustrating nor too easy.