Basic guidelines for writing summaries
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The document provides guidelines for writing summaries, including defining a summary as a short version of a passage consisting of a single word, phrase, sentences, or 1-2 paragraphs depending on instructions. It should include the main ideas and supporting details using concise sentences without repeating ideas, examples, or long explanations. The 7 steps for writing a good summary are to read the passage and instructions, identify the main points to summarize, arrange the main points in order, write a first draft paraphrasing in your own words, link ideas with logical connectors, and write a final draft.
Basic guidelines for writing summaries
- 1. BASIC GUIDELINES FOR WRITING SUMMARIES
- 2. A summary is a short version of a passage / text. It may consist of a single word, a phrase, several sentences, or 1 or 2 paragraphs; depending on what is required by the instructions / question, and the original length of a passage. It is generally informative and descriptive. It comprises the main ideas and supporting details of the passage. It uses concise and coherent sentences.
- 3. Write a topic sentence. Use only main ideas. 1) Identify answers to the question 2) Select key words / phrases 3) Paraphrase – write in your own words
- 4. Do not repeat the ideas. Do not give examples. Do not give long explanations.
- 5. No quotations required. Use simple language. Be brief and concise.
- 6. Keep to the word limit 75 to 85 words – write only 1 paragraph. Write the number of words written at the end of the paragraph.
- 7. 7 STEPS IN WRITING A GOOD SUMMARY
- 8. Read the title (or source) of the passage, and the instructions. Then read the passage right through. STEP 1: FIND OUT WHAT THE PASSAGE IS ABOUT
- 9. Reread and examine the instructions. STEP 2:FIND OUT WHAT NEEDS TO BE SUMMARIZED
- 10. Read the passage again. Underline the main points. Leave out details, examples, illustrations, forms of convention / politeness and repetitions. STEP 3:IDENTIFY RELEVANT MAIN POINTS
- 11. STEP 4:ARRANGE THE MAIN POINTS IN ORDER
- 12. Paraphrase / use own words where possible. STEP 5:WRITE THE FIRST DRAFT
- 13. Ensure a smooth transition between the ideas. STEP 6:LINK IDEAS WITH LOGICAL CONNECTORS / TRANSITIONS
- 14. STEP 7:WRITE THE FINAL DRAFT