Final answer:
Avoid rote memorization as it does not foster deep understanding or critical thinking, while asking questions, making inferences, and taking notes are beneficial for active reading.
Step-by-step explanation:
As an active participant in reading, the goal is to engage deeply with the text, making connections and understanding the author's arguments. Therefore, what you should avoid is d. rote memorization. Rote memorization is a passive reading strategy characterized by memorizing information without engaging with its meaning. This approach might help you recall certain facts or ideas temporarily, but it does not promote critical thinking, understanding, or the ability to make inferences and articulate questions or objections about the material being read.
Asking questions, making inferences, and taking notes are practices that encourage active reading and are therefore beneficial. They help retain information, understand complex concepts, and develop analytical skills, which are essential for in-depth learning and comprehension. To avoid passive reading, you should read slowly and actively, annotating, and reflecting on the content to achieve a deeper understanding.