Summary Writing
Characteristics of a Good Summary
It accurately represents the ideas in the original text
accurate
It preserves the balance and proportion of the original work
balanced
It does not misinterpret or twist the ideas in the source
text
It uses your own words
unbiased
original
Some Important Points about Writing Summaries
1.First, make sure that you understand what you have read!
2.Distinguish between main ideas and details. Use only the most
important supporting or explanatory details.
3.Write the main ideas in your own words.
4.Do not copy, although you may need to use some of the technical
words used by the author.
5.Use a quotation ONLY if it is absolutely necessary to show a key
point.
6.Introduce your summary by stating the name of the original work and
the author and by using a reporting verb of some kind. For
example:
title
author
reporting verb
In Writing Clearly, Lange and Lane provide information on common
grammar errors ESL students make, explain strategies to correct
the errors, and supply exercises for editing practice.
Remember: Use italics or underline titles of books, magazines, or films.
Put “quotation marks” around the titles of articles.