How to write a summary of the text? 8 important rules
The conclusion of an article, just like the introduction, plays an important role in constructing the entire text. It largely determines the reader’s better understanding of the message and drawing conclusions. How to write an accurate summary of the text and what should be included in it? We explain!
What is a summary of the text?
The summary of the text is the final part that aims to explain the author’s intentions and present the most important conclusions arising from the content.
Summary usually consists of:
- captured at the beginning of the thesis,
- key information regarding the subject
- moral or general opinion about the whole idea.
It describes in a few sentences the main idea presented in the article, showing it from a slightly different perspective. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of the given arguments. It is a great way to conclude the discussed topic and connect the content into one coherent whole.
Although a concise summary of the text is not always easy to write, it is definitely worth taking the time to do so. This way, readers will gain a clearer understanding of the main message and retain it more effectively.
Types of summaries in articles
We distinguish four proven types of conclusions that will help readers consolidate the most important information. The use of summarization will have a positive impact on the substantive value of the text; it may also contribute to a better evaluation of the page by Google search engines.
General summary
This is one of the most commonly used types of conclusions. Usually, it briefly presents what the content is about, while also presenting the key conclusions contained in the text.
It will work perfectly for scientific articles, essays, and all kinds of texts conveying knowledge on a specific topic. Such a conclusion of an article should refer to the introduction and at the same time contain a properly paraphrased thesis.
In conclusion, excessive precision often causes difficulties in completing a task. Therefore, it is worth sometimes letting go a little and considering whether individual actions will significantly affect the quality of work. This way, you will save time and find it easier to motivate yourself for future activities.
A conclusion that builds on the text
This is a highly appreciated type of ending by readers. It can often be found in columns, presentations, and humorous texts. In this case, it is also worth including a reference to the beginning.
The goal, however, is not to repeat the information contained in it, but to formulate an interesting or funny reflection related to the topic. In addition, the authors willingly use aphorisms, various quotes, and expert opinions.
In some cases, excessive accuracy can lead to the opposite effect of what was intended – instead of improving actions, it significantly delays them. It is worth quoting a passage from Gilbert E.’s book “Big Magic”: “Perfectionism hinders people from completing their works – but, even worse, often prevents them from starting the work.”
Direct address to the reader
Ending with a direct address to the reader is a great solution used in texts aimed at building relationships with the audience.
Usually applies to blog articles and other content marketing materials, such as newsletters or e-books. It includes thanks, a request to take specific action, or a question that encourages discussion in the comments.
If you want to increase the effectiveness of your efforts and save time at the same time, check how much time you dedicate to each action. It may turn out that you are too meticulous and in reality, the quality of your work will not decrease at all if you give up some of the activities.
Open ending
It is the only form of ending that breaks all the rules. It perfectly suits melancholic and reflective articles. Its purpose is to encourage the reader to contemplate and shape their own opinion. For this reason, it does not contain any summary or moral and leaves the topic open-ended.
Does perfectionism help in everyday work or is it a trap that takes time and robs motivation? There is no clear answer to this question.
How to write an accurate summary of the text?
Writing a summary can sometimes seem difficult, especially when it comes to scientific publications. First and foremost, it is worth considering the format of the planned article, taking into account what it should cover and who its audience is. This way, it will be much easier to tailor the appropriate conclusion. Here are a few useful tips:
Provide an appropriate title for the conclusion
Before writing the conclusion, place the H2 header “Conclusion” or “Summary”. This way, key information will be highlighted, making it easier for the reader to remember the article.
Go for a short, but meaningful ending
Summarize in a few sentences, addressing the most important issues. It is best to exclude new information, as this section should closely relate to the rest of the text.
Use auxiliary questions
As you reach the end of the content, ask yourself questions in your mind such as “What does this result in?” or “Why does it matter?”. This way, you will easily draw conclusions from the previously presented facts.
Repeat the thesis stated in the article
In summary of the article, restate the thesis stated in the introduction. Remember to use different words than before. Such a sentence will definitely highlight the value of the given arguments.
Be natural in what you do
Writing a conclusion is a great opportunity to establish a connection with the reader. This primarily applies to difficult and highly detailed tutorial articles. By including a personal anecdote related to the discussed problem in the content, you will show that you are familiar with it from your own experience.
Provide valuable tips on further proceedings
Instead of a classic summary, a good solution may be to provide ready-made instructions. In this way, you will make your audience aware of what steps they need to take in order to solve a given problem.
Ask a question to start a discussion
At the end of the article, place a question that will stimulate readers to form their own opinion or encourage further discussion. This approach is highly effective in encouraging more reader engagement and comments.
Use bullet points
If you want to communicate the most important information from the text in a simple and clear way, a good solution is to use bullet points. This will organize the conclusion of the article and make it easier to remember.
Summary
- The summary of the article aims to present the author’s idea and conclusions drawn from the text, as well as emphasize the importance of the arguments provided.
- The most commonly used forms of conclusions are: general summary, punchline, direct address to the reader, and open ending.
- Each of these forms fits a different type of article.
- To write an accurate summary of the text, it is worth including it in a few concise sentences, placing an appropriate heading before it, and using bullet points.
- A good solution is to restate the thesis statement previously stated, provide ready instructions regarding the solution to the discussed problem, or ask the readers a question to initiate a discussion.
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