Summaries are an essential tool for efficiently conveying information and highlighting key points. Whether it’s for a school assignment, a business presentation, or just personal use, writing effective summaries can greatly improve comprehension and help simplify complex information. In this article, we will outline the steps and tips for writing effective summaries.
Step 1: Read the original text thoroughly
The first step in writing a summary is to thoroughly read the original text. It’s important to understand the main ideas and arguments presented in the text before attempting to summarize it. This will help ensure that the summary is accurate and relevant.
Step 2: Identify key points
Once you have a good understanding of the text, identify the key points and arguments presented. Make a list of these points to help you focus on the most important information when writing the summary.
Step 3: Write a clear and concise introduction
The introduction should provide context for the reader and briefly explain what the text is about. This will give the reader a good idea of what to expect from the summary and help them understand the context of the information being presented.
Step 4: Summarize key points
Write a concise summary of the key points and arguments presented in the text. Keep the summary short and to the point. It should only include the most important information and avoid including any extraneous details.
Step 5: Use simple and direct language
Avoid using complex vocabulary or convoluted sentence structures. Use simple and direct language to make the summary easy to understand for all readers.
Step 6: Avoid adding personal opinions
The summary should only include the facts and arguments presented in the original text. Avoid adding your personal opinions or interpretations as these can detract from the accuracy of the summary.
Step 7: Proofread
Finally, proofread the summary to make sure it is free of grammatical errors and typos. This will ensure that the summary is professional and easy to understand.
In conclusion, writing effective summaries is a valuable skill that can greatly improve comprehension and simplify complex information. By following these steps, you can write clear and concise summaries that accurately convey the key points and arguments presented in the original text.
Here are two examples of a summary in English:
Original Text:
“Global warming is a major environmental issue that has been affecting the planet for decades. It is caused by an increase in greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, which trap heat in the atmosphere and cause the planet’s temperature to rise. The effects of global warming are widespread, including melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and more frequent and intense natural disasters. In order to combat global warming, it is important for individuals, governments, and businesses to take action by reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.”
Summary:
“Global warming is caused by an increase in greenhouse gases and has widespread effects, including melting glaciers and rising sea levels. To combat it, individuals, governments, and businesses need to reduce carbon emissions and shift to renewable energy sources.”
Here’s another example of a summary in English:
Original Text:
“The novel ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee is a classic piece of American literature that has been widely read and praised since its publication in 1960. The novel is set in the 1930s in a small town in Alabama and follows the story of a young girl named Scout Finch as she grows up and learns about prejudice and injustice. Through her experiences and observations, Scout learns about the importance of empathy, understanding, and courage. The novel is a powerful commentary on race relations and the injustice of the American legal system.”
Summary:
“Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ is a classic American novel set in the 1930s that follows the story of Scout Finch as she grows up and learns about prejudice and injustice. The novel teaches about empathy, understanding, and courage and is a commentary on race relations and the injustice of the American legal system.”
