3. Characteristics of a Good Summary
Proper citation
begins by citing the title, author, source (in case of journal or
article date of publication)
Thesis statement
Aspects of effective statement
1. It comprises two parts
a. The topic or general subject matter of the text
b. The author’s major assertion, comment, or position on the
topic.
2. This central theme is summarized clearly and accurately.
3. The thesis statement does not contain specific details
discussed in the text.
4. It is stated at the beginning of the summary.
4. Characteristics of a Good Summary
Supporting details
1. Cover all the author’s supporting ideas.
2. Show the relationships among the ideas.
3. Omit specifics such as illustrations, descriptions, and detailed
explanations.
4. Indicate the author’s purpose: to inform, to persuade or to entertain.
5. Omit personal opinions, ideas, and interfaces.
5. Characteristics of a Good Summary
Grammar and mechanics of writing
Communicate clearly
Restate the ideas in your own words. Avoid direct quotations
Use transitional words for smooth and logical flow of ideas
Edit and rewrite your work
Check for grammar punctuation and spelling.
Length of the summary depends on the original text/writing
6. Steps in Writing Summary
Initially, writing summary may appear as tough task.
Careful reading and reflective thinking in essential.
Reread the article
Divide the writing in segments or sections dealing with one aspect of
the central theme.
Label each segment using general phrase that captures the subject
matter of the segment.
Highlight or underline the main points and key phrases.