Writing a Summary (Grade 12 NSC Matric English HL): Revision Notes
Writing a Summary
What is a summary?
A summary is a shortened version of a text that focuses only on the most important ideas that relate to the specific topic mentioned in the question. Think of it as distilling a longer piece of writing down to its essential points, like making a concentrated juice from fresh fruit.
Think of summarising like making concentrated juice from fresh fruit - you're extracting only the essential flavour (key ideas) while removing all the water (unnecessary details) to create something much smaller but still containing all the important elements.
Key characteristics of a good summary
Understanding what makes a summary effective will help you write better responses in your exam. A strong summary should:
- Include seven clear, relevant points that directly address the question's focus
- Be written in your own words as much as possible, rather than copying phrases from the original text
- Contain no grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors as these will cost you marks
- Remain objective by avoiding your personal opinions or explanations - stick to what the text actually says
- Stay within the required word limit which you must check carefully in the exam instructions
Common Mistake to Avoid: Many students lose marks by including their own opinions or explanations instead of sticking strictly to what the original text says. Remember - your job is to condense, not to interpret or add your own ideas.
Steps to writing a summary in the exam
Step 1: Read the question carefully
This first step is crucial because it determines everything that follows. Take time to properly understand what you're being asked to do.
Identify the focus of your summary by looking for key phrases in the question. For example, if the question asks you to "Summarise the writer's suggestions for reducing pollution," you know you're only looking for suggestions about reducing pollution, not general information about pollution.
Underline key words in the question to keep yourself focused while reading. These words will guide your reading and help you identify relevant information.
Follow every instruction given in the question. The instructions will tell you exactly how to format your response. Pay special attention to whether you need to write in paragraph form or use another format.
Critical Formatting Rule: If the question specifies "Write a paragraph summarising...", your answer must be written in continuous sentences, not as bullet points or a list. This formatting requirement is essential for earning full marks.
Step 2: Read the passage
Effective reading strategies will help you identify the most important information quickly and accurately.
Read the text once for overall understanding. Don't worry about taking notes yet - just get a sense of what the passage is about and how it's structured.
Read it again carefully, this time highlighting or underlining key ideas that relate directly to the question. Focus on finding information that answers the specific question you've been asked.
Ignore examples, background details, and opinions unless they directly answer the question. Your summary should include only the main points, not supporting details or elaborations.
Effective Reading Strategy: After reading each paragraph, ask yourself: "Does this part help to answer the question?" If yes, underline or note the key idea. If no, move on to the next paragraph. This approach keeps you focused on relevant content and saves valuable exam time.
Step 3: Plan your summary
Planning ensures you select the most important and relevant points before you start writing.
Review the key ideas you underlined during your reading. Look for the most significant points that directly address the question.
Choose the seven most important points that best answer the question. Remember, you need exactly seven points - no more, no fewer.
Number your points 1-7 to check that each one is distinct and relevant. This also helps ensure you don't accidentally repeat similar ideas.
Remove repeated or similar ideas to make room for more diverse points. Each of your seven points should offer something different.
Planning Tip: Use short, simple sentences when planning. Each sentence should express one clear point. This approach makes your summary more precise and easier to follow, while also helping you identify any points that might be too similar to others.
Step 4: Write and edit your draught
Now it's time to transform your planned points into a well-written summary.
Rewrite the points in your own words rather than copying directly from the passage. This demonstrates your understanding and helps you avoid plagiarism.
Avoid copying long phrases directly from the passage. While you may need to use some key terms, try to rephrase ideas using your own sentence structures.
Combine similar ideas to keep your summary concise and flowing well. This also helps you stay within the word limit.
Check for accuracy, fluency, and correct grammar as you write. Errors can cost you marks, so take time to write clearly and correctly.
Worked Example: Useful phrases for summarising
These sentence starters can help you introduce your points smoothly and demonstrate that you're summarising rather than copying:
- "The writer explains that..."
- "According to the text..."
- "The passage suggests that..."
- "It is stated that..."
- "In summary, the author emphasises..."
Using these phrases helps you transition into your own words while clearly indicating you're drawing from the source material.
Step 5: Write the final version
Your final version should be polished and meet all the requirements.
Write your seven key points neatly in complete sentences. Make sure your handwriting is legible and your sentences are well-constructed.
Keep within the word limit specified in the question (often around 80-90 words). Going significantly over or under the limit can affect your marks.
Write the exact word count in brackets at the end of your summary. This shows the examiner that you've followed the instructions carefully.
Cross out your draught clearly so that only your final version is marked. Make sure it's obvious which version the examiner should assess.
Final check
Before you finish, verify that your summary meets these criteria:
Essential Requirements Checklist:
- Seven points only - no more, no fewer
- All relevant to the question - each point directly addresses what was asked
- Written in your own words - minimal copying from the original text
- Clear, correct, and concise - well-written and easy to understand
Remember!
Key Points to Remember:
- A summary condenses a text to show only the main ideas relevant to the specific question asked
- You must include exactly seven clear points written in your own words
- Stay objective by avoiding personal opinions and stick to what the text actually says
- Follow the word limit carefully and write your word count in brackets at the end
- Plan first, write second, and always check your work before submitting