6 Steps to write a summery
Step 1
Study the summary question carefully until you are quite sure you
understand what is required of you. It would be helpful for you to
underline the keywords in the question to keep you on the right
track.
E.g. In no more than 120 words, describe the appearance and habits
of the gorilla.
Step 2
Identify the part or parts of the passage where the relevant
material for your answer is to be found. This may cover the whole
passage or only certain paragraphs. Bracket the section or sections
that you must summarize.
Step 3
On rough paper, write down the relevant points you must include in
your answer.
Caution:
Some candidates underline on the question paper the points they
think are the most important. This method has one serious danger.
You are usually asked to write your summary in your own
words.
Many candidates ended up by copying the underlined phrases and
sentences into their summaries. It is better to jot down points on
a separate piece of paper. This has the advantage of providing an
outline around which your summary can be built.
Step 4
Referring only to your notes and not the original passage, write a
rough draft of your summary. By not looking at thee original, you
are more likely to use your own words.
Step 5
Read through your summary and check that
1) it says what the original says
2) it is clear
3) it reads like normal English
Count the number of words. It there are too many words, you must
find ways of shortening your summary. If there are too few words,
check to see you have not left out some important ideas.
Step 6
When you are satisfied with your rough draft, write your fair copy.
Read it over and write down the number of words you have used at
the end.
Source: From my worksheet given by my kind English teacher.
