Summaries - Foundations of Effective Writing
Writing Skills Lesson – Identifying and expressing main ideas
1. Why summaries matter
Summaries show that you truly understand a text by expressing the main ideas in your own words. They help you focus on what is essential rather than repeating everything.
Summaries are useful for:
- study skills (note-taking, exam preparation)
- workplace communication (emails, reports, meeting notes)
- reading and listening exams
- academic writing and research
- explaining information clearly to others
2. What makes a good summary
A strong summary:
- Includes only the main ideas
No examples, statistics, stories, or opinions. - Uses your own words
Avoid copying long phrases from the original. - Is shorter than the original
For short texts, aim for 1–3 sentences. - Is objective
Do not add your personal opinion, judgement, or interpretation. - Follows a logical order
Present ideas in the same sequence as the original text.
A good summary is short, objective, and written in your own words. It includes only the main ideas and leaves out examples and extra details.
3. Useful language for summaries
Starting a summary
- The text explains that…
- The main idea is that…
- Overall, the author says that…
- In summary…
Connecting ideas
- Another key point is…
- The text also mentions…
- In addition…
- Furthermore…
Ending a summary
- Overall…
- In conclusion…
- To sum up…
4. Model summaries
Original text: Many people prefer online shopping because it is convenient. They can compare prices easily and read reviews before buying. However, some people still enjoy going to physical stores to see products in person.
Summary: The text explains that online shopping is popular because it is convenient and allows easy price comparison, although some people still prefer physical stores.
Original text: Many cities around the world are investing in public transportation systems to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Buses, trains, and trams help people travel efficiently without relying on private cars. In addition to environmental benefits, improved public transport can make cities more accessible for people who cannot drive, such as teenagers, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. However, some residents still prefer using their own vehicles because they value privacy and flexibility.
Summary: The text explains that many cities are improving public transportation to reduce traffic and pollution while offering efficient travel options. It also highlights that better transit systems increase accessibility for people who cannot drive. Despite these advantages, some individuals continue to prefer private cars for the comfort and independence they provide.
Notice:
- shorter
- main ideas only
- no examples
- no personal opinion
5. Practice: Identify the main ideas
Read the text and write the two main ideas:
Public parks are important for communities. They give people a place to relax, exercise, and enjoy nature. Parks also help the environment by providing green spaces for plants and animals.
6. Practice: Write a summary
Write a 1–2 sentence summary for each text.
A.
Libraries offer free access to books, computers, and study spaces. They also host events such as workshops and reading clubs for the community.
B.
Public transportation helps reduce traffic and pollution. It also provides an affordable way for people to travel around the city.
C.
Many students prefer studying with digital tools because they can organise notes easily and access information quickly. However, some still like using paper because it helps them focus.
7. Practice: Identify Main vs. Extra Information
For each sentence, decide whether it is a main idea (M) or an extra detail (D).
- Smartphones allow people to communicate quickly from anywhere.
- Some smartphones come in bright colours like red or blue.
- Exercise is important for staying healthy.
- Many people choose to run in the morning because it fits their schedule.
- Learning a new language can improve job opportunities.
8. Writing task
Choose a news story, article, video, or podcast and write a 3–4 sentence summary. Include:
- the main idea
- 2–3 key points
- your own words
- no unnecessary details
- clear, logical order
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Answer key – Practice (Section 5)
1. Parks give people a place to relax and enjoy nature.
2. Parks help the environment by providing green spaces.
Answer key – Practice (Section 6)
A. Libraries provide free access to learning resources and support the community by offering events and activities.
B. Public transportation reduces traffic and pollution while giving people an affordable way to travel.
C. Many students prefer digital tools for convenience, though some still choose paper because it helps them focus.
Answer key – Practice (Section 7)
- M — Smartphones allow people to communicate quickly from anywhere.
- D — Some smartphones come in bright colours like red or blue.
- M — Exercise is important for staying healthy.
- D — Many people choose to run in the morning because it fits their schedule.
- M — Learning a new language can improve job opportunities.
