I find hearing and reading at the same time helps. Here is what I do when I am struggling with a pattern.
If it is not written out that is the first thing I do. this helps me really understand where everything goes.
I then program it into my drum machine. This forces me to place every beat where is should be and help me understand the pattern even more.
Then I will listen and play along at a slow tempo. As I feel comfortable I speed up the drum machine. I like to get to the point where I can play the pattern well much faster then I need it. Then when I settle down to the correct tempo it is very easy and comfortable to play.
Another added benefit is that I can try different fills withing the context of the groove. It allows me to play fills against the groove and hear how well they fit.
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