Abstract: The college English popular science reading is relatively easier to understand than technical English. Yet it is also very difficult for its specialized vocabulary and complex sentence structure. Through empirical studies, an investigation is made into the problems of unclear logic and inaccurate mastery of the content in the process of reading, incomplete summary of information in writing an outline, and mechanic copying of words and sentences in the original text and then a cause analysis is made. It is found that the following things be urgently needed: the mastery of scientific reading methods and skills; the fostering of ability in making a summary; a solid foundation for grammar and vocabulary; the ability of retelling; ability of textual analysis; the reinforced logic thinking and the offering of academic English courses. Therefore, it might be helpful for the students to correctly understand the content of an article and enhance their reading and summarizing abilities in popular science texts.