Summary

How to Write a Summary for Academic Papers

A summary is a concise and accurate overview of a source text's main points and arguments. It is not a paraphrase or a critique, but a condensed version of the original text that captures its essence and purpose. A summary can help readers to quickly understand the main ideas and arguments of a paper without reading the whole text.

Writing a summary requires careful reading and analysis of the source text and clear and concise writing skills. Here are some steps to follow when writing a summary for academic papers:

1. Identify the purpose and audience of the summary. Depending on the context and discipline, a summary may have different goals and expectations. For example, a summary may be written to inform, persuade, or evaluate a source text. A summary may also be written for different audiences, such as peers, instructors, or researchers. Knowing the purpose and audience of the summary can help you decide what information to include and how to organize it.

2. Read the source text carefully and identify its main points and arguments. You may need to read the source text more than once to fully understand its content and structure. As you read, look for the thesis statement, topic sentences, supporting evidence, and conclusions. You may also want to highlight or take notes of the key information and terms.

3. Write an outline of the summary based on the main points and arguments of the source text. An outline can help you organize your ideas and avoid unnecessary details. A typical outline of a summary may include:

- An introduction that states the title, author, and main idea of the source text.

- A body that summarizes the main points and arguments of the source text in your own words. You may use subheadings to divide the body into sections that correspond to the source text's structure.

- A conclusion that restates the main idea of the source text and its implications or significance.

4. Write the summary using your own words and following your outline. Avoid copying or quoting directly from the source text, unless you use quotation marks and cite the source properly. Use transition words and phrases to connect your sentences and paragraphs. Use clear and precise language to convey the meaning of the source text without adding your own opinions or interpretations.

5. Revise and edit your summary for clarity, accuracy, and completeness. Check your summary against the source text to make sure you have not omitted or distorted any important information or arguments. Make sure your summary is coherent, concise, and consistent in tone and style. Proofread your summary for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting errors.

A summary is an important skill for academic writing, as it can help you demonstrate your understanding of a source text, synthesize multiple sources, or prepare for further research or writing. By following these steps, you can write successful paper summaries that capture the essence and purpose of the source texts.