1. AcDv B61: How to Write an Excellent Summary
Bakersfield College
Jessica Wojtysiak
Spring 2016
AcDv B61: How to Write an Excellent Summary

2. What is a summary?
A brief statement identifying the main points of a text. The goal is to give an accurate and objective representation of what the author or authors wrote.

3. Why Write a Summary
By writing an excellent summary, you are demonstrating:
Your mastery of the text
Your ability to discern the major points from the supporting details
Your use of precise language
Your ability to keep your opinion out of it

4. Introductory sentence Supporting details with transitions
Summary Format
Introductory sentence
Supporting details with transitions
Summation sentence
(pp in handout packet)

5. The First Sentence
In ________, ____________, __________________, (title) (Author) (Qualifications) ____________ (s) that __________________. (Action verb) (explanation of author’s thesis)

6. Why this first Sentence?
Identifies the author
Identifies the title of the work
Uses an active verb to catch the reader’s attention
Identifies the major theme/assertion/thesis/subject of the text.
It’s grammatically correct.

7. Ask yourself questions: Who? When? Where? What happened?
Supporting Details
Facts
Events
Explanation
Reasons
Outcomes
Ask yourself questions: Who? When? Where? What happened?

8. Closing Sentences Sums up the significance of the selection
Example: Ultimately, the early chapters of True Notebooks provides insight into the mind and early experiences of the author as he awkwardly establishes his writing course.

9. Be precise and specific Use key details sparingly
Other Rules to Follow
Less is More
Be precise and specific
Use key details sparingly

10. Tone and Audience
Paraphrase the author (no direct quotations!)
No opinions (unless specifically asked)
Use summarizing language – “The author claims…” or “the chapter covers…”

11. Any Questions ?