Summary Writing Formula
Summary = easy marks. Just follow the formula.
The 5-Step Formula
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Read the question. Find which paragraphs (e.g. "Paragraph 2 and 3") |
| Step 2 | Underline KEYWORDS in the question (e.g. "benefits", "problems", "causes") |
| Step 3 | Scan those paragraphs. Underline the points that match. |
| Step 4 | Write ONE sentence per point. Use your OWN words. |
| Step 5 | Link points with connectors (Firstly, Secondly, Finally). |
The Template
Use this skeleton for EVERY summary:
"The passage discusses _____.
Firstly, _____.
Secondly, _____.
In addition, _____.
Finally, _____."
That's it. 4-5 sentences. Done.
Key Rules
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| ✅ Use YOUR OWN words | Don't copy the passage. Change the words. |
| ✅ One point = one sentence | Don't put two ideas in one sentence. |
| ✅ Use connectors | Firstly, Secondly, Moreover, Finally |
| ❌ No your opinion | Just the passage. No "I think..." |
| ❌ No examples | Don't write stories. Just facts. |
How to Stay Within 80-120 Words
Step 1: Write your summary normally.
Step 2: Count the words. A word = any group of letters with a space before it.
Step 3: If too long → cut examples, extra adjectives, repeated ideas.
Step 4: If too short → add another point from the passage.
"is", "a", "the", "and" all count as words.
Quick word count method:
"Write your sentence. Count words by pointing to each word and saying one number." Or paste into a word counter.
Practice Passage 1 — Benefits of Reading
Read the passage below. Write a summary of the benefits of reading in 80-120 words.
(1) Reading books is one of the best habits a person can develop. (2) It helps to improve vocabulary and language skills, especially for students who want to do well in exams. (3) Many people do not realise that reading can also reduce stress and help a person relax after a long day. (4) When a person reads regularly, their brain becomes sharper and they can think more clearly. (5) Furthermore, reading exposes people to new ideas and different cultures, which makes them more understanding of others. (6) Finally, reading is a cheap form of entertainment that anyone can enjoy anywhere.
Question: Write a summary of the benefits of reading from the passage above.
Sample Answer:
The passage discusses the benefits of reading. Firstly, reading improves vocabulary and language skills, which helps students in exams. Secondly, it reduces stress and helps people relax. In addition, regular reading makes the brain sharper and improves thinking. Moreover, reading introduces people to new ideas and cultures. Finally, reading is an affordable form of entertainment.
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(72 words)
Practice Passage 2 — Problems of Social Media
Read the passage below. Write a summary of the problems of social media in 80-120 words.
(1) Social media has become a big part of our daily lives. (2) One major problem is that people spend too much time on social media and waste hours scrolling through their feeds. (3) This can lead to poor time management and affect schoolwork. (4) Another issue is cyberbullying, where people say mean things online without facing consequences. (5) Many young people also feel insecure when they compare themselves to the perfect pictures they see online. (6) Social media can also spread fake news quickly, causing confusion and fear among users. (7) Finally, too much screen time affects sleep because people stay up late using their phones.
Question: Write a summary of the problems of social media from the passage above.
Sample Answer:
The passage discusses the problems of social media. Firstly, people waste too much time on social media. This leads to poor time management and affects schoolwork. Secondly, cyberbullying occurs when people say hurtful things online. Many young people feel insecure when comparing themselves to perfect images online. Social media also spreads false information quickly. Finally, excessive screen time disrupts sleep patterns.
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(66 words)
Practice Passage 3 — Importance of Saving Money
Read the passage below. Write a summary of why saving money is important in 80-120 words.
(1) Saving money is a good habit that everyone should learn. (2) Having savings means you are prepared for emergencies like car repairs or medical bills. (3) Saving also allows you to achieve your goals, such as buying a house or going to university. (4) It gives you peace of mind because you do not have to worry about money problems. (5) When you have savings, you can also take advantage of opportunities, such as starting a business. (6) Young people who learn to save early develop good financial discipline that helps them later in life.
Question: Write a summary of why saving money is important from the passage above.
Sample Answer:
The passage discusses the importance of saving money. Firstly, savings help during emergencies like car repairs or medical bills. Secondly, saving helps people achieve goals such as buying a house or going to university. It also provides peace of mind by reducing money worries. Moreover, savings allow people to take opportunities like starting a business. Finally, saving early builds good financial discipline for the future.
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(67 words)
Quick Checklist
- [ ] Did you read the question first (which paragraphs)?
- [ ] Did you underline keywords?
- [ ] Did you write in your own words?
- [ ] Did you use 3-4 connectors?
- [ ] Did you count your words?
- [ ] Is it between 80-120 words?
- [ ] Did you AVOID "I think" or your own opinion?
If yes → You will get summary marks. Easy.