I followed an efficient research paper workflow during my PhD. I'd start with a strategic pre-read: abstract, introduction, and conclusions first, then figures and captions, and finally section headings to grasp the structure. If the paper still seemed relevant, I'd read it in full.Often the pre-read was sufficient to determine it wasn't worth my time.

I now apply this same approach to video content, using AI to summarize Youtube video transcripts before watching. This not only saves hours but makes any subsequent viewing more focused and comprehensible