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Top Tips for Tackling Summary Writing in O-Level English
- Posted By Superadmin Lilbutmighty
- 04/14/2025
Hello, everyone! I’m Ms Cindy, an English Language Curriculum Specialist and Teacher at Lil’ but Mighty. Today, we will be looking at how to tackle Summary Writing in the O- Level Examination.
First of all, let me quickly introduce to you what Summary Writing entails:
- It is tested in Section C of Paper 2: Comprehension.
- You will be required to pick out information from selected paragraphs of the Non-Narrative Comprehension passage.
- The summary is about 80 words in length, not including the introductory wordsprovided for you.
- It is worth 15 marks in total: 8 for Content and 7 for Language.
- You are expected to use your own words as much as possible.
Take a look at the Summary Writing question from the 2024 O Level paper:
Here are some of the best tips for acing the summary writing component in the English O-Level examination:
1. Understand the Requirements
- Read the question carefully to determine:
– the specific focuses of the passage you are summarising (e.g. causes, effects, or characteristics)
– relevant paragraphs from where the points should be taken - Highlight or underline keywords in the question to stay on track and only includethe required points.
Let’s refer to the Summary Writing question from earlier so that I can demonstrate these steps:
2. Annotate While Reading
- Skim through the passage first, then read the focused paragraphs for the summary more carefully.
- While reading the passage, underline or highlight relevant details that align with the question.
- Avoid being distracted by irrelevant information – this includes elaboration, examples or irrelevant details not related to the question.
- Number the points while you read to save time and organise your thoughts.
This is also to help ensure that you have picked at least 8 points to score for Content.
Below is a short extract from Text 4. Take a closer look at how the annotions have been done as an example:
3. Paraphrase Effectively
- Use your own words rather than copying directly from the passage. This demonstrates your ability to rephrase and condense information. Take note that being able to successfully use and sustain the use of your own words and structures is one of the criteria you need to fulfil in order to score well for the Language criteria.
- Replace or paraphrase keywords with synonyms.
- Reformulate sentences to show originality, such as changing sentences from active voice to passive voice.
(E.g. Sam repaired the car → The car was repaired by Sam)
To save time, you can paraphrase the points and jot the paraphrased words/phrases/ ideas in the passage itself, as demonstrated below:
4. Stick to the Word Limit
- The word limit is typically 80 words.
- Include only the key points, without unnecessary elaboration.
- Write concisely, excluding examples, repetitions of points, or quotations.
- Focus on factual information from the passage. Do not include your own views, interpretations, or additional information.
- Combine information from multiple sentences into one using appropriate connectors.
- Use precise vocabulary such as combining adjectives with verbs (e.g very sad → depressed).
5. Maintain Proper Structure
- Ensure that the first point connects seamlessly with the words given to help you begin.
- Present the points in a logical order. Group similar ideas together to make your summary flow naturally.
Here’s an example of how the first 3 points of the summary question we have looked at earlier can be organised:
6. Use Clear, Simple Language
- Write in full sentences and avoid overly complex vocabulary or sentence structures.
- Ensure your grammar, punctuation, and spelling are accurate.
7. Manage Your Time
- Allocate 10–15 minutes for the summary.
– Spend 5–7 minutes identifying and annotating key points in the passage.
– Spend the rest of the time writing and checking your work.
8. Proofread Your Work
- Check for errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
- Ensure your summary adheres to the word limit.
9. Practise Regularly
- Practise with past-year papers and sample texts. Remember to apply the steps mentioned above!
- Time yourself to simulate exam conditions, and review your work to identify areas for improvement.
I hope this guide helps you feel more confident about tackling summary writing. By following these tips and practising consistently, you will improve your ability to write concise, accurate summaries. Stay tuned for more tips to excel in your English exams. Stay focused, manage your time well, and remember to apply these strategies during the exam!
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Ms Cindy
Ms Cindy is a patient and encouraging tutor who is dedicated to helping her students thrive in their English language learning. With her background in Philosophy, she brings a thoughtful and reflective approach to her teaching. Ms Cindy discovered her passion for education when she stepped in as a relief teacher, and she has since been committed to making her lessons both enjoyable and impactful.
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