Writing a Summary


🧠 Understanding the Task

In the Eiken Pre-1st writing section, you’re usually asked to summarize a short passage (about 100–120 words) in your own words, within 50–60 words.

You cannot copy sentences directly from the text. Instead, you must paraphrase the main idea and supporting points clearly and concisely.


🎯 Your Goal

You must:

  1. Identify the main idea of the passage.
  2. Find two key supporting points that explain or support the main idea.
  3. Summarize those ideas using your own words in about 50–60 words.
  4. Keep your grammar accurate and sentences well-organized.

🪜 Step-by-Step Strategy

Step 1: Read and Understand

Read the passage carefully. Ask:

  • What is the topic?
  • What is the author’s opinion or main point?
  • What two reasons or examples support that opinion?

👉 Example question words to guide you:

  • Why does the author think this?
  • What are the reasons or effects mentioned?

Step 2: Take Notes

Write short notes like this:

  • Main idea: _______
  • Point 1: _______
  • Point 2: _______

Don’t copy full sentences — just key words.


Step 3: Paraphrase the Ideas

Rewrite them in your own words.
Use synonyms and different sentence structures.

Example:

  • Original: “Many people prefer online shopping because it is convenient.”
  • Paraphrased: “A lot of people choose to shop online since it saves time and effort.”

Step 4: Organize Your Summary

Use this structure:

(1) Introduce the topic briefly.
(2) State the main idea.
(3) Explain the two main supporting points.

Avoid personal opinions. The summary should be neutral and objective.


🧩 Example Practice

Original Passage:

Many people believe that working from home has several advantages. It allows employees to save time and money because they do not need to commute. It also gives them more flexibility to manage their work and personal life. However, some say it reduces communication between coworkers.


Notes:

  • Main idea: Working from home has advantages.
  • Point 1: Saves time and money (no commuting).
  • Point 2: Offers more flexibility for work–life balance.

(The last sentence about communication is not the main focus.)


Sample Summary (53 words):

The passage explains that working from home provides several benefits. It helps employees save both time and money since they do not have to travel to work. In addition, remote work gives people more freedom to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.


🪶 Writing Tips

Use transitions: “In addition,” “Furthermore,” “Also,” “As a result.”
Keep formal tone: Avoid contractions like don’t or can’t.
Stay objective: Don’t add your opinion.
Aim for 50–60 words.
Check grammar: Subject–verb agreement, tense consistency, and articles.


🧭 Summary Formula (Quick Memory Tip)

M + P1 + P2 = Summary

M: Main idea
P1: First supporting point
P2: Second supporting point

Then paraphrase clearly in 2–3 sentences.

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