Intermediate ✍️ Writing · #33 of 98

Summarising a Text

Condense main ideas in your own words.

Examples

  • The text argues that...

Key rules

  • A summary gives the main ideas in your own words and is shorter than the original
  • Do not add your own opinion
  • Use reporting verbs such as argues, suggests and explains

Common mistakes

  • The author said, "The city is changing fast," and then listed five examples of this. → The text argues that the city is changing quickly.

Use cases

  • Academic reading tasks
  • Summarising a news article
  • Writing an abstract for a class
💡 Tip: Read the text once, write down the main idea in one sentence, then add supporting points.
Practise this topic in the appPractise Intermediate quiz
← Note-Taking SkillsParaphrasing →

Related Intermediate topics

See all Intermediate writing lessons →

Formal Email Structure

Subject, greeting, purpose, details, closing.

Formal vs Informal Tone

Avoid slang and contractions in formal writing.

Writing a Cover Letter

Introduce, match skills to job, close politely.

Writing a CV or Resume

Clear sections with strong action verbs.

Writing a Complaint Letter

State the problem, evidence, expected solution.

Writing a Request or Enquiry

Be polite and specific.