Final answer:
A summary is a shortened form of a text that includes the main points and key details, expressed in your own words. It is vital for academic writing and demonstrates comprehension, making complex information more accessible. When summarizing, always cite the original source.
Step-by-step explanation:
A summary implies condensing a text to its essential information while expressing it in your own words. It requires identifying the main ideas and most important details, and then rewriting them in a more concise form without losing their original meaning. Unlike a direct quotation that uses the exact language of the text, a summary involves processing the intended message and extracting its core elements. Part of the skill in summarizing is being able to discern which parts of the source material are necessary for an understanding of the topic and which can be left out.
When you summarize, it's not just about reducing the length of the text; it's about clarity and understanding. You're refining the original message to make it more accessible. Whether for an essay or research, summarizing can function as a way to give background information or simplify complex ideas. Proper citation of the original source when summarizing is also pertinent to maintain credibility and avoid plagiarism.
The aim of a summary is not to provide an exhaustive account or to offer personal opinion, but rather to reflect the key points of a source. In academic writing, knowing how to effectively summarize is crucial as it lays the groundwork for analysis, synthesis, and critical evaluation in essays and research papers. It's also a way of demonstrating your comprehension and the ability to distill essential information.