1. SUMMARIES The short version

2. What is it? A summary is a brief restatement of the main ideas of a written text. They are written in your own words and can include some words/phrases from the original. Are over 50% shorter than the original! Average length is only150-200 words.

3. Tips Summaries ONLY provide the main ideas of a text. No opinions OR minor details! DO NOT just simply copy the original!

4. The planning process  Step 1: You MUST read the text more than once so you understand it! It is a good idea to underline/highlight main ideas as you read.  Step 2: Using the provided template, create a topic sentence that clearly explains what the text is about. (This must be in your own words) Use present tense! Be sure to identify title and author of text!

5. The process cont.  Step 3:Using the text and your template, find and write down two details that support the main idea or focus of the text. Supporting details are facts/examples/other evidence in the text Signal phrases like “According to the author” “The author believes” are good ways to start each sentence.  Step 4: Create a concluding sentence that sums up what the article was about – this should be linked to the main idea.

6. Things to remember  Step 5: Once the template is completed, you write out your summary in full on lined paper. Use the title of the article as your heading. Remember: Use transition words like additionally, therefore etc. to improve the flow of your writing. Be sure to check your draft and make necessary editing decisions to improve your work before you write final copy.