Well before the preliminary examinations (but no later than the beginning of the Spring Semester you take your preliminary exams), compile a reading list in consultation with your advisor and the departmental members of your examining committee. This list forms the basis of the preliminary exams and normally represents the area or areas of concentration that will reflect your dissertation research. The list is usually 10-12 pages long and includes an introductory statement of no more than two pages that describes the general area of the preliminary examination and the theoretical and literary issues that interest you. The reading list must be approved by the advisor before the written prelim. Once it is approved, make sure that all members of your committee have a copy of the final version.