English · Class 11
Summary Writing
Learn Summary Writing with notes, examples, and practice questions.
3 sections15–25 min read6 MCQs · 2 examples
Chapter Overview
Summary writing distils a passage to one-third length (or specified word count) in your own words — tests comprehension, concision, and clarity without losing essential points.
Steps
- Read passage 2–3 times
- List main ideas (ignore examples unless crucial)
- Write draft within word limit
- Check: no personal opinion, no direct quotes unless asked
Language Rules
- Third person: 'The author states...' or impersonal style
- Present tense for general truths; past if narrative
- Link sentences: furthermore, in addition, finally
- One paragraph unless told otherwise
Solved Examples
Step-by-step solutions — read each step before checking the final answer.
Condensing
Passage 300 words on yoga benefits — target 100 words.
- 1Points: health, stress, flexibility, accessibility
- 2Drop repetitive examples
- 3Merge similar ideas
Answer
100-word paragraph covering physical, mental benefits and growing popularity.
Own words
Original: 'The proliferation of gadgets has eroded attention spans.' Rephrase.
- 1Avoid 'proliferation' and 'eroded' if possible
Answer
More devices have reduced people's ability to focus for long.
Key Points to Remember
- ✓ One-third rule common for long passages
- ✓ Include all major aspects — none dominant omission
- ✓ No bullet points in final summary unless instructed
- ✓ Title optional for standalone summary tasks
Exam Tips
- • Count words on answer sheet
- • Do not add examples not in source
- • Avoid starting every sentence with 'The'
- • Peer review: would reader understand without passage?
Practice MCQs — Summary Writing
Test your understanding with topic-wise multiple choice questions. Explanations appear after each answer.
Question 1 of 6Score: 0/0
Summary must be in: