A Briefly, the way to seek knowledge (is as follows):- -Take care to memorize the Book of Allah and allocate some time everyday to memorize and read, such that your recitation is with reflection and understanding. And if you come across a beneficial point whilst reading, then make a note of it; -Take care to memorize what is easy (for you) from the authentic Sunnah of the Messenger (peace be upon him) and from that (I recommend) memorizing (the book) "'Umdatul-Ahkaam"; -Take care in concentrating (whilst seeking knowledge) such that you do not take a little knowledge from here and a little from there. This is because this wastes your time and (unnecessarily) busies your mind; -Start with smaller books and study them well, then move on to those that are above (in level) until you gain knowledge little by little in a manner which makes (the knowledge) firm in your heart; -Take care to understand the fundamental issues, their rules and the limits of all that passes by you, as it has been said: "Whoever does not take care to learn the fundamentals, then he has prevented (himself) from arriving at the goal"; -Discuss issues with your Sheikh or someone who is known for his knowledge and (practice of the) religion.
Sheikh Bin Uthaymeen; Kitab-ul-'Ilm, Pg. 119, no. 17.
Saudi Gazette - Monday, 23 March 2009 - 26 Rabi Al-Awaal 1430 H