Close Reading is defined as thoughtful, critical analysis of a text to focus on and look at significant information to develop a deep, precise understanding.
Close reading requires spending extra time on text. After two initial read-throughs, a third reading is needed to analyze and evaluate the text.
Obviously not every text needs to be read with so much attention to details. Save close reading for significant writings, one that impact student lives. The goal is to help students become more thoughtful readers and thinkers.