1. Read, reread, and three-read the text you've decided to summarize.
2. Jot down in a notebook a basic outline of the author's argument. Start with his/her thesis, then note the supporting points of the argument. Some authors use complex organizational techniques, and may actually have two or three main points. That's okay--just note them.
3. Write a paragraph that restates the article briefly and generally.
4. Write another paragraph that goes into a little more detail about each of the author's points. This is where you may want to include a quote or two. Keep in mind, though, that your quotes should be short, since this is only a summary and you want most of it to be in your own words.
5. Then look and see if there's
anything you've left out, anything else that's important to mention.
You may want to spend another brief paragraph, for instance, focusing on
the author's conclusion. Remember when you do this not to say whether
you agree with him/her or not. You're only summarizing, not analyzing.