Writing a Summary

Reading
1. Skim through selection quickly
2. Study beginning and end for clues to central idea
3. Underline important phrases in paragraphs. Often in first
sentence
4. Circle signposting language: “Firstly”; “For instance” etc
5. DO NOT UNDERLINE TOO MUCH
 Outline
1. Write important phrases (underlined words) in margin.

• Use Outline View in Microsoft Word

o Pay attention to the hierarchy of ideas
o Write short phrases NOT complete sentences
o Use your own words as much as possible (Remember Shift + F7)
 Summary
1. Begin with:
o Author’s
 Name
 Qualifications
 Attitude/Purpose
o Publication
o Date
• Number of examples and subpoints determined by length of
summary
• Use your own language
• If you copy long phrases/sentences, use quotation marks.
• Don’t try to include everything
 Summary Language
1. For development of ideas:
Begins; continues; goes on to, concludes
• For author’s statements:
Says; states, discusses; mentions, believes , argues

3. DO NOT GIVE YOUR IDEAS AND ATTITUDES

4. Be consistent with verb tense – All past / present.