Writing Effective Summaries, Analyses, and Comments in English
This page provides a detailed overview of how to write summaries, analyses, and comments for English exams or assignments. It covers the essential elements of each type of writing, offering guidance for students looking to improve their English writing skills.
For summaries, the guide emphasizes:
- Starting with an introductory sentence that includes the text type, author's name, and source
- Keeping the summary to about 1/3 of the original text length
- Focusing on main aspects and answering the 4 W questions (Who, What, When, Where)
- Using simple present tense and avoiding direct quotes
- Employing linking words for coherence
Highlight: Keep summaries simple, avoid short forms, and use your own words instead of quoting directly.
For analyses and comments, the guide outlines:
- Presenting the problem or referring to the question/statement in the introduction
- Collecting and organizing pro and con arguments
- Connecting arguments logically, from weakest to strongest
- Explaining each argument and providing references
- Concluding with possible solutions
Example: When analyzing a fictional or non-fictional text, start with an introduction that presents the topic, author, and source, such as "The article 'XYZ' by John Doe, published in The Times on October 30, 2004..."
The page also touches on the importance of analyzing language use and stylistic devices, emphasizing their role in supporting the author's intentions.
Vocabulary: Stylistic devices - Literary techniques used by writers to convey meaning, create atmosphere, or evoke emotions in readers.
Lastly, the guide provides a structured outline for an analysis, including:
- Introduction (text type, author, topic, intention, source)
- Short summary
- Analysis of rhetorical and stylistic devices
- Conclusion summarizing main results
Definition: Rhetorical devices - Techniques used in writing or speech to persuade or create an effect on the audience.
This comprehensive guide serves as an excellent resource for students practicing summary writing exercises or preparing for English writing tasks in class 10 and above.
