What information should a summary include?
www.hunter.cuny.edu/rwc/handouts/the-writing-process-1/invention/Guidelines-for-Writing-a-Summary
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A summary should include the main points or key details of a longer piece of information, such as an article, book, or any other written work. Here are the essential components that a summary should include:
1. Main Idea: Summarize the central point or thesis of the original work in a concise manner. This captures the overall focus of the piece.
2. Supporting Details: Include the major supporting points or arguments provided by the author. These points should be relevant to the main idea and help provide context.
3. Scope and Structure: Provide an overview of how the original work is organized or structured. This could involve mentioning the sections or chapters covered and their sequence.
4. Elimination of Redundancy: Remove unnecessary repetition or redundant information. A summary aims to condense the content, so eliminate any extraneous or duplicate details.
5. Language Simplification: Use clear and concise language to rephrase the ideas. Avoid using direct quotes unless they are particularly crucial or impactful.
6. Objective Tone: Maintain an objective tone while summarizing. Avoid injecting personal opinions, biases, or interpretations into the summary.
To create a summary, follow these steps:
1. Skim the original work: Get a general idea of the content by quickly reading through it. Highlight or take notes of the main ideas and supporting details.
2. Identify the main idea: Determine the central point or thesis statement of the original work. This forms the backbone of your summary.
3. Outline the supporting points: Identify the significant supporting details that contribute to the main idea. These usually appear in topic sentences or as key arguments.
4. Write in your own words: Paraphrase the original content using simpler language. This ensures that you fully understand the information and can communicate it effectively.
5. Trim unnecessary information: Remove any redundant or insignificant details that don't add value to the summary.
6. Revise and edit: Review your summary for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Ensure that it accurately represents the main ideas of the original work in a concise manner.
Remember, a summary is not a substitute for the original work but a condensed version that conveys the essence of the information.