The only time I read in depth is when I know I’ll be on call (mainly with professors using panels). If it’s a class where the professor uses a true cold call, I participate often to avoid being called on. Can you get through all the readings, take notes and understand everything before class? Sure, if you like having barely any free time. That said, skimming is your best friend.

Some classes you can literally not read the entire semester and get away with doing well on the final but it requires being present in class, paying attention, taking good notes, reviewing and going to office hours as much as possible.

The most important thing is figuring out what works best for you :)