What is a summary?

A summary is an unbiased and objective articulation of a source's overall argument and essential points. Summaries usually consolidate information from a full source or larger document.  See some of the Writing Center's tips for summarizing. 

Additional Resources:

• Be sure that you do not confuse summarizing with paraphrasing, which articulates a source's ideas on a smaller scale and in your own words. See this page for more details on paraphrasing.

Further Questions?

Would you like your current assignment or paper to be reviewed by the Writing Center?  If so please visit the Writing Center's Paper Review Website and make an appointment with us! 

Do you have other general writing questions? Ask OASIS ! 

Other questions about your doctoral capstone or the Form & Style review? E-mail the Dissertation Editors at [email protected].

Want to peruse other writing resources? Go to the Writing Center’s homepage.