How to Write a Good Summary

SUMMARY

How to write a good summary

What is a summary?

Parts of a summary

Tips to write a successful summary

Template

Assessment

What is a summary?

A summary is a concise explanation of the main ideas and supporting details of a work of writing. To decide which details to include in the summary of a book chapter, consider the "who, what, when, where, why and how" while reading the chapter. Take notes that answer these questions and compile the information into complete sentences.

Parts of a summary

REVISE FOR CLARITY

MAIN THEME

MAIN CHARACTERS AND SETTINGS

SUPPORTING DETAILS

Tips to write a successful chapter

Shorten the text in such a way that all facts are in the summary. Leave out examples, evaluations and interpretations. Skim the text. You should know what is the main content of it. Read the headline carefully. Read the text again to understand more details. You must have understood the whole text. Make notes (use keywords). Underline important words in the text. Form sentences with the help of your keywords. These sentences should reflect the main content of the text. Connect the sentences using suitable conjunctions. The first sentence should describe the main content of the text. Use Simple Present or Simple Past. Don't use quotes or direct speech. Sometimes you have to change the person. Check your summary. Watch out for spelling mistakes.

Template

Assessment