5.4 How to… How to write a summary A summary is a shortened, or condensed, version of a text containing only key information in order to give a short, but clear account of the basic ideas that the author of the original text wants to convey. ■ Skim the text to identify different sections and look up words you do not understand. ■ Read the text carefully to identify the topic, the main idea, the author’s tone and style. ■ Read the text carefully one paragraph at a time, and for each paragraph: underline the topic sentence, circle keywords, identify the main ideas and take notes. Before writing ■ State the overall meaning of the text in a single sentence, in other words what the text is about. ■ If you have not put it in the title of your summary, cite here the author and the title of the original text. Structure and content 1. Introduction: the thesis statement ■ Refer to the main ideas in the same order in which they appear ■ in the original text. ■ Do not use the same words, apart from some keywords, but rephrase your sentences using your own words. ■ Use connectors to link the various ideas and make the text flow. 2. Body: the main ideas ■ Write in the present tense, except in the case of historical or fictional narratives. ■ Use synonyms and paraphrase the expressions from the original text; for example change the active form into a passive one or vice versa, using noun phrases instead of verbs, etc. ■ Combine sentences to condense ideas by linking them with conjunctions or adverbs. Language ■ Be concise. If not stated differently, a summary is usually one third of the original text. ■ Do not put your opinions, ideas or interpretation of the text, or ideas that are not in the original text. The purpose of a summary is to represent accurately what the author wanted to say, not to provide a critique. ■ Do not overuse the author’s words, but if you have to, cite them. Tips How to write a product review A review is a short critical text. They are generally written by people external to business organisations, but companies usually exploit positive reviews for marketing and advertising campaigns. ■ Be sure you have all the information you need for your analysis. Before writing ■ Provide a table of technical details. ■ Describe the product briefly in text form. ■ Evaluate the product. 1. Details 2. Description 3. Critical analysis ■ Be objective and direct. Language ■ If the review is promotional, only focus on positive aspects in the analysis and quote positive comments from authoritative people (e.g. critics, newspapers, etc.). Tips