Goodreads can do more than store your reading list. These features help you discover books, keep more accurate records and tailor the platform to your reading habits.
1. Scan books before you choose
Use the camera icon in the mobile app to scan a book cover or barcode. Goodreads displays details and reader ratings, and keeps a history of your scans.
2. Track rereads separately
To preserve the dates and details of each reading, choose Edit my activity, then Add read date, rather than simply marking the book as read again.
3. Pick the edition you're reading
Page counts vary between editions. Select the right print or audiobook version from the book's editions list for more accurate progress and reading statistics.
4. Customize your Reading Challenge
Remove selected books from your annual challenge if you want to focus your goal on particular formats or genres. Find the option in the app's challenge details or on your profile on the web.
5. Bring Kindle notes together
Connect your Amazon and Goodreads accounts to view Kindle highlights and notes on Goodreads. You can also edit notes and sync changes back to Kindle.
6. Keep a private reading log
Goodreads shelves aren't private, but you can create a secret group with only yourself as a member and use its shelves to track books privately.
7. Organize books you didn't finish
Use the built-in Did Not Finish shelf to separate unfinished titles from books you've completed. Check your challenge settings if you don't want these titles included in your goal.
8. Compare reading tastes
Choose Compare Books beside a friend's name to see which titles you share and how closely your shelves align--useful when choosing a book to read together.
9. Sort your reading list
Set a shelf's sorting criteria to bring highly rated, shorter or recently published titles to the top. Save the settings for each shelf you want to customize.
10. Export your library
Download your books as a CSV from My Books under Import and export. The file can serve as a backup and help you review titles, ratings, notes and reading dates.
With a few adjustments, Goodreads can become a more flexible reading companion, making personal reading records easier to manage and explore.
