How To Write A Summary On An Article: A Comprehensive Guide
Summarizing an article effectively requires more than just skimming the text. It demands a thorough understanding of the main points, supporting arguments, and the author’s overall message. This guide will equip you with the skills to craft concise and accurate summaries, regardless of the article’s length or complexity.
Understanding the Article: The Foundation of a Good Summary
Before you even think about writing, you need to fully grasp the article’s content. This isn’t about speed-reading; it’s about comprehension. Take your time. Read the article carefully, at least once, and perhaps twice if necessary. Highlight key sentences, phrases, and concepts. Consider taking notes in the margins or on a separate sheet of paper.
Identifying the Central Argument
Every article, regardless of its subject, has a central argument or thesis statement. This is the core idea the author is trying to convey. Finding this central argument is crucial because your summary will revolve around it. Look for the main point the author keeps returning to throughout the piece.
Breaking Down the Article: A Structured Approach
Once you’ve grasped the central argument, it’s time to break down the supporting evidence and arguments. This involves identifying the main points used to support the central argument. Think of these as the pillars holding up the author’s claim.
Analyzing Supporting Evidence
Each main point will likely be supported by evidence, examples, and reasoning. Focus on understanding how the author uses this evidence to build their case. Don’t get bogged down in minor details; instead, focus on the overall significance of the supporting evidence.
Crafting Your Summary: The Writing Process
Now that you’ve thoroughly analyzed the article, it’s time to write your summary. Keep it concise and focused on the core message. Avoid unnecessary details or digressions.
Writing a Concise and Accurate Summary
Aim for brevity. A good summary should be significantly shorter than the original article, typically no more than one-third the length. Ensure accuracy; don’t misrepresent the author’s arguments or conclusions.
Maintaining Objectivity and Neutrality
Your summary should be objective and neutral. Avoid expressing your personal opinions or biases. Present the author’s ideas fairly and accurately, even if you disagree with them.
Incorporating Quotations (Sparingly)
While avoiding extensive quotes, selectively incorporating brief, impactful quotes can enhance your summary’s accuracy and provide direct evidence of the author’s claims. Always use quotation marks and cite the source appropriately.
Avoiding Plagiarism: Proper Citation
Always cite your source correctly. Failing to do so constitutes plagiarism, which can have serious academic and professional consequences. Use a consistent citation style (e.g., MLA, APA) throughout your summary.
Refining Your Summary: Editing and Proofreading
Before submitting your summary, carefully edit and proofread your work. Check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and clarity errors. Ensure your summary flows logically and reads smoothly.
Ensuring Clarity and Coherence
The final step is to ensure your summary is clear, coherent, and easy to understand. Read it aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or unclear sentences. Ask a peer to review it for feedback.
Different Types of Summaries: Adapting Your Approach
The approach to summarizing might vary depending on the context. A summary for an academic paper will differ from a summary for a casual blog post.
Tailoring Your Summary to the Audience
Consider your audience when writing your summary. Adjust your language and level of detail accordingly. A summary for a specialist audience can be more technical than a summary for a general audience.
Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Summarization
Summarizing an article effectively is a valuable skill that requires careful reading, critical analysis, and concise writing. By following the steps outlined in this guide – understanding the central argument, analyzing supporting evidence, crafting a concise and accurate summary, and refining your work – you can confidently create summaries that accurately reflect the original article’s content and purpose. Remember to always prioritize accuracy, objectivity, and proper citation to avoid plagiarism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the article is extremely long and complex? Break it down into smaller, manageable sections. Summarize each section individually before combining them into a cohesive whole.
How can I ensure my summary is objective? Focus solely on presenting the author’s main points and supporting arguments without injecting your own opinions or interpretations.
Is it okay to paraphrase extensively in a summary? Yes, but always ensure you are accurately representing the author’s meaning and avoid overly close paraphrasing that could be considered plagiarism. Proper citation is key.
What is the ideal length for a summary? There’s no single “perfect” length. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a summary that is significantly shorter than the original text, often around one-third the length.
How can I improve my summarizing skills? Practice regularly. Start with shorter articles and gradually work your way up to longer, more complex texts. Regular practice will significantly improve your ability to identify key information and express it concisely.