Summary Writing Basics

Section 1What a summary does

A summary is a shorter version of a text that keeps the central meaning. It should include the main idea and the most important supporting points. The thing to remember is: shorter does not mean vague; it means selective.

Section 2Selecting key points

Start by finding what the passage is mostly about, then underline points that directly support that focus. Examples, repeated ideas, descriptions, and side comments are usually not key points. Watch out: a detail can be interesting and still not belong in the summary.

Section 3Using your own words

A good summary should not copy whole sentences from the passage. Use your own wording while keeping the meaning accurate. Here's the trick: change the structure of the sentence, not just one or two words.

Section 4Keeping it objective

Summary writing is not a place for personal opinion. Do not add your own judgement, extra facts, or emotional reaction. In plain words, if the passage does not say it, keep it out.

Section 5Combining ideas

Strong summaries combine related points instead of listing every sentence separately. For example, if a passage gives three examples of poor time management, you can summarise them as "poor planning and delays." This is one of the most common exam slip-ups: writing too much because you have not grouped ideas.

Section 6Checking length and clarity

Summary tasks often give a word limit or expected length. Stay within it by cutting repeated wording and minor examples. Your final summary should still read smoothly, with clear sentences and logical order.