4.Summary writing=10

Writing a summary involves condensing the key points of a longer piece of text into a shorter version while retaining the main ideas. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an effective summary:

1. Read and Understand the Original Text

Read carefully: Read the entire text carefully to understand its main ideas and supporting details.
Identify the purpose: Ask yourself, “What is the author’s main point?” or “What is the text trying to convey?”
Highlight key points: Underline or take note of important ideas, facts, or arguments in the text.

2. Break Down the Structure

Introduction: What is the main topic or purpose of the text?
Main points: What are the supporting ideas or arguments made in the text?
Conclusion: How does the text wrap up its message?

3. Identify Key Ideas

Focus on central concepts or arguments.
Omit examples, details, and minor points unless they are crucial to the understanding.
For fiction, summarize the plot, main characters, and the theme.

4. Write the Summary in Your Own Words

Paraphrase: Avoid copying phrases from the original text. Use your own words to describe the main ideas.
Condense: Summarize the main points without going into unnecessary detail.
Be objective: Present the information without adding personal opinions or interpretations.
Stay focused: Stick to the most important points, keeping the summary concise and clear.

5. Begin with a Strong Opening Sentence

Your first sentence should mention the title of the work, the author, and the main idea or purpose of the text.
Example: “In his article ‘The Effects of Climate Change,’ John Smith discusses the various ways that global warming is affecting the environment and human life.”

6. Follow a Logical Order

Present the key ideas in the same order they appear in the original text, or group similar ideas together if they make sense that way.

7. Review and Edit

Check for clarity: Ensure that your summary clearly presents the original text’s main ideas.
Check for brevity: A summary should be much shorter than the original text. Aim for around 10-20% of the original length.
Avoid unnecessary details: Eliminate any extraneous information that doesn’t contribute to the overall understanding of the text.

8. Conclusion (Optional)

Sometimes, a summary may end with a brief concluding statement that reinforces the main point of the original text.
Example: "Overall, Smith concludes that immediate action is required to prevent further damage to the planet."

Example of a Summary

Original Text (100 words): "Wildfires have become an increasingly common problem due to rising global temperatures. Not only do they destroy forests, but they also harm wildlife, displace communities, and pollute the air. In 2020 alone, wildfires in Australia and the western United States burned millions of acres, resulting in billions of dollars in damages. Climate change has been a driving factor behind the increase in wildfires, as hotter, drier conditions create the perfect environment for them to spread. Experts agree that unless significant steps are taken to reduce carbon emissions, wildfires will continue to grow in frequency and intensity."

Summary (35 words): "Wildfires are increasingly common due to rising temperatures, harming wildlife, destroying forests, and displacing communities. The 2020 fires in Australia and the U.S. highlight the role of climate change in creating ideal wildfire conditions."