How do you answer a summary question in an English exam?
Short answer
Read the question to see exactly what information is asked for, find the relevant points in the passage, then rewrite each point in your own words as one short, complete sentence. Leave out examples, repetition and unnecessary detail, and keep to the number of sentences or words required.
Step by step
- Read the question carefully and underline what you must summarise.
- Read the passage and mark every relevant point.
- Write each point as one clear sentence in your own words.
- Remove examples, illustrations and repeated ideas.
- Check you have the required number of points and stay within the word limit.
Worked example
Question: In four sentences, summarise the benefits of reading mentioned in the passage
- Reading improves vocabulary.
- It helps readers concentrate for longer.
- It reduces stress.
- It increases general knowledge.
Common mistakes
- Copying long phrases straight from the passage. Examiners reward your own words.
- Joining several points into one long sentence, which can lose marks.
- Including points the question did not ask for.
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