Writing a Summary

1
Writing a Summary
2
Reading

• Skim through selection quickly
• Study beginning and end for clues to central idea
• Underline important phrases in paragraphs. Often
  in first sentence
• Circle signposting language Firstly For
  instance etc
• DO NOT UNDERLINE TOO MUCH

3
Outline

• Write important phrases (underlined words) in
  margin.
• Use Outline View in Microsoft Word
• Pay attention to the hierarchy of ideas
• Write short phrases NOT complete sentences
• Use your own words as much as possible (Remember
  Shift F7)

4
Summary

• Begin with
• Authors
• Name
• Qualifications
• Attitude/Purpose
• Publication
• Date
• Number of examples and subpoints determined by
  length of summary
• Use your own language
• If you copy long phrases/sentences, use quotation
  marks.
• Dont try to include everything

5
Summary Language

• For development of ideas
• Begins continues goes on to, concludes
• For authors statements
• Says states, discusses mentions, believes ,
  argues
• 3. DO NOT GIVE YOUR IDEAS AND ATTITUDES
• 4. Be consistent with verb tense All past /
  present.