SUMMARY SKILLS

It is important to remember:   You might not be asked just to summarise a passage. Most often you will be asked to summarise a particular slant or argument from a passage, table, diagram. You must read the question very carefully!  

A PROSE SUMMARY (PARAPHRASE).   The format of a prose summary looks something like this. It is made up of full and complete sentences and is only one paragraph long. Sometimes it is called a paraphrase or precis. Often you are asked to write the summary in a full sentence, then it is not a paragraph. A style mark is always allocated so you need to make sure the summary flows. No abbreviations are allowed and the style is impersonal and formal. You must use your own words as far as possible. At the end of the paragraph you will be required to write the number of words you have used. (108 words )

PROCEDURE 1. Read through the question very thoroughly, highlighting all the instructions. 2. Read through the passage carefully. While you are doing so, discard all irrelevant information and examples. 3. Highlight the information that you are being asked to find. 4. Read through the question again and make sure you have found the information required. 5. Write the summary. 6. Remember to write the summary in your own words as far as possible. 7. Count the number of words used. 8. Check your style.  

KEY WORDS Key words are the most important words in a sentence . The key words you underline will form the core of your points. Highlight or underline the key words. Where possible you can change the key words into your own words. Be careful you do not underline too many words, like this, or you will not be able to see what is important!  

SNAPPY TITLES Titles need to sum up the main point of an article. They need to be short, sharp and informative.  

KEY OR TOPIC SENTENCE Every paragraph usually has one main idea, a key topic or key sentence. Often it is the first sentence of a paragraph. The rest of the paragraph explains that point or gives examples to clarify the point.   Key sentences are the sentences that will be used in your summary. For example, in the first paragraph the key sentence is the first sentence. That is information you will use in your summary.

CONDENSING It is often possible to condense a concept into one word or idea. This will make your summary more concise. Examples : every year = annually Someone who inhales smoke from another person’s cigarette = secondary smoker.