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Difference Between Paraphrase and Summary |
Instructions Read the descriptions, as well as the cautions when writing a paraphrase or summary. Use the chart to compare the two |
Go directly to:
Paraphrase |
Description of a paraphrase:
- Is not necessarily shorter than the original passage
- Focuses on writing a specific passage in your own words
- Includes all the same information as the original source
Cautions when paraphrasing:
- Make sure your wording is not too close to the original
- Do not copy the author’s sentence structure
- Make sure your wording doesn’t distort the original meaning
Summary |
Description of a summary:Cautions when summarizing:Gives an objective overview of the general ideas of a passage Clearly and accurately expresses all of the author’s main ideas Avoids specific descriptive details and examples Includes only the main points the author made Is about 60% shorter than the original passage Preserves the emphasis of the original work
Don’t misunderstand the author’s meaning, such as use of sarcasm Make sure you use your own words Do not include quotes Do not include your own opinions or new ideas
Paraphrase |
Both |
Summary |
Re-states the author’s words |
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Covers a short passage |
Covers a longer passage |
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Includes all the points in the original passage |
Includes only the main ideas of the original passage |
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Uses your own words |
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Is about the same length as the original passage |
Is about 60% shorter than the original passage |
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Preserves the emphasis of the original passage |
copyright 2006 Carolyn Jackson
