Purpose

Writing a summary of another argument is a first step toward joining an academic conversation and finding our voice within it.  Writing a summary encourages us to understand another point of view fully and describe it precisely so others can understand. 

Writing Task

Write a detailed and accurate summary of ... (This essay prompt can be adapted to work with most any college-level text.)

Requirements: 

• The summary should be at least 3 pages long. 
• Describe the key ideas discussed in the argument, including the main claim, key reasons, counterarguments, rebuttals, and limits.
• Focus on the author’s ideas without giving your opinion.
• Choose phrases like “Alsultany argues…” throughout to show the writer’s purpose at each point. 
• Write most of the summary in your own words, but consider using the occasional direct quote where the original word choice is critical.
• The introductory paragraph should include the title of the argument, the author’s full name, and the argument’s main claim.
• Use MLA format for in-text citations whether paraphrased or quoted. You do not need to do a Works Cited page for this assignment.
  
  

Suggestions for the Writing Process 

1. Read or reread the chapters. Chapter 2: Reading to Figure out the Argument Links to an external site. and Chapter 3: Writing a Summary of Another Writer’s Argument Links to an external site. are meant to guide you through the steps of this assignment. They include examples of summary writing and suggested sample phrases.
2. Read one or more sample summaries Links to an external site. to get an idea of what you are aiming at.
3. Reread the argument you have chosen and make notes as you go on its claims, reasons, counterarguments, rebuttals, and limits.
4. Make an argument map and/or answer the brainstorming questions. Note: Making an argument map can be helpful, but it can be tricky, especially if you are summarizing a complex longer argument. If you are getting stuck working on the map, the brainstorming questions will also help you think about the structure of the argument.
5. Write a draft.
6. Seek feedback from a tutor, classmate, friend, or teacher.
7. Revise the content.
8. Proofread for grammar and punctuation.

Essay assignment created by Natalie Peterkin, edited by Anna Mills, and offered under a CC BY-NC license Links to an external site..