Summary Writing

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Summary

1. Read Carefully

Read the passage thoroughly to understand its main ideas and structure. Pay attention to the purpose of the text and any recurring themes.

2. Identify Key Points

Identify the main points or arguments in the text. Focus on the central ideas rather than specific examples, details, or anecdotes.

3. Take Notes on Main Ideas

Write down each main idea briefly. Avoid copying sentences directly from the text; instead, rephrase them in your own words to better understand them.

4. Organize Your Notes

Arrange your notes in the same order as they appear in the original text. This will help maintain the flow of ideas and make your summary easier to follow.

5. Create a Title for the Summary

Think of a title that captures the overall theme or main idea of the text. This title should be clear and concise, offering readers an immediate understanding of the subject.

6. Use Your Own Words

Write the summary using your own words, while keeping it concise. Aim for a summary that’s about one-third of the original text’s length or shorter. Avoid overly complex language to keep it accessible.

7. Focus on the Author’s Main Points

Only include the most critical points and ideas. Skip examples, minor details, or personal interpretations unless they’re essential to understanding the main argument.

8. Avoid Opinions and Personal Comments

A summary should be objective. Avoid adding your own opinions, interpretations, or personal comments.

9. Write a Clear, Brief Summary

Start with a sentence that introduces the author, title, and purpose of the text (if relevant). Then, include the main points in a logical order, making sure to stay concise.

10. Revise and Edit

After writing, revise the summary for clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Check if you’ve accurately conveyed the main ideas without unnecessary repetition or added details.

11. Proofread

Finally, proofread for any grammar, punctuation, or spelling mistakes to ensure your summary is polished and easy to read.

Example with Title:

Original Paragraph: 

"Social media has dramatically changed the way people communicate. It allows individuals to share their lives, opinions, and experiences in real time with a global audience. Despite the positive aspects, such as staying connected with friends and family, there are also downsides, including privacy concerns and the potential for addiction."

Summery

 "Impact of Social Media on Communication"

                     "Social media has transformed communication by enabling people to share their lives instantly with a global audience, though it raises privacy concerns and risks of addiction."

This example includes a title that reflects the main idea of the text, as well as a concise summary capturing the key points.