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Summarising

 

What is a summary?

A summary is a short and concise representation of the main points, ideas, concepts, facts or statements of a text written in your own words. Unlike a paraphrase, which is generally of a similar length to the original text, a summary is much shorter.

When either summarising or paraphrasing, you should not alter:

  • the author's original idea(s)
  • the degree of certainty with which the ideas are expressed.

Referencing

Summaries need to be referenced. Whether you have summarised or paraphrased an author's words, thoughts, ideas etc., a citation to the original source of the words, thoughts, ideas etc. must be provided.

To create/write a good summary, you should read the article or text a number of times to develop a clear understanding of:

  • the author's ideas and intentions
  • the meaning and details
  • the force with which the ideas are expressed.

How to write a summary

Use the following steps to write a summary.

Step 1

  • Write notes in point form using keywords; this will make it easier to express the ideas in your own words.

Step 2

  • Write the summary directly from your notes without re-reading the passage.

Step 3

  • Refer back to the original to ensure that your summary is a true reflection of the writer's ideas.
  • Topic sentences provide a quick outline of the main idea(s) presented in a paragraph.
  • When summarising a chapter or article, the introduction and conclusion should provide a good overview of the content.

Example

Time management is a critical skill for all students to develop. Weekly and semester timetables are an excellent way to plan a study program. Students can use them to manage their most important study, work and social commitments and to set themselves study goals. Blocks of time can then be set aside for study, reading, researching and writing. The most urgent tasks can be addressed, whilst work continues on preparing for lectures, tutorials and assignments. If time has been allocated for specific purposes, it is easier to avoid unexpected demands like phone calls, visitors and invitations. Assignments can be completed and submitted on time and to a satisfactory standard.

Summary

Effective time management allows students to utilise their time in order to successfully complete their study requirements.