Steps to Summarize Correctly
Summarizing is not just about making a text shorter. It’s about capturing the core message and conveying it in a way that makes sense, especially to someone who hasn’t read the original material. A good summary is clear, concise, and faithful to the source. Below are the steps to help you summarize effectively.
Identify the Main Idea
Begin by figuring out what the text is really about. What is the author trying to say overall?
A good way to start is by reading the table of contents, headings, subheadings, or introduction. These give you a roadmap of the content and help you understand the central theme or thesis.
Identify Supporting Arguments
Once the main idea is clear, look for the key points that support it. These are the reasons, evidence, or explanations that the author provides to back up the central idea.
Make sure to distinguish between main supporting points and minor details. Focus on arguments that help explain, prove, or explore the main idea.
Read, Take Notes, and Understand the Text
Read the material carefully. As you read, take brief notes in your own words. Note down important concepts, definitions, or steps—without copying directly.
This step is about building your own understanding. Don’t rush. Rereading difficult parts can help if something isn’t clear at first.
Re-read Your Highlights and Notes
Go back through your notes and highlights. Review them and make sure they reflect the actual meaning of the original text.
At this point, try to connect the ideas. Ask yourself how the supporting points relate to the main idea. This helps in organizing your summary logically.
Write Your Summary and Paraphrase
Now, using your own words, write a short version of the original content. Focus on the big picture, not the small details.
Avoid copying phrases or sentences. Instead, paraphrase—restate the ideas in a way that feels natural to you, while still being accurate.
Keep the tone neutral and avoid inserting your opinions. Your goal is to convey what the original author said, not what you think about it.
Key Points
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The summary should be understandable to someone who hasn’t read the original material.
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Cover all the main ideas and supporting arguments.
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Avoid unnecessary details, specific dates, and statistics unless they are essential.
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Be concise and use simple, clear language, as if explaining it to a child.
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Always paraphrase instead of copying—use your own words.
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Be objective. Do not add your opinions or interpretations.
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Think about the basic questions: Who? What? When? Where? Why? and How?