Summary writing is not about copying chunks of the passage. It is about identifying the key points, rewriting them in your own words, and presenting them in a tight, logical paragraph within the word limit.
What WAEC looks for in a summary
WAEC awards marks for points: usually 10 points for 10 marks. Each point must be: • Accurate (from the passage) • Expressed in your own words • Relevant to the question asked You lose marks if you copy directly, include irrelevant details, or exceed the word limit.
The summary writing process
Step 1: Read the question carefully: it tells you WHICH points to look for. Step 2: Read the passage and number each relevant point as you find it. Step 3: Rewrite each point in your own words (one sentence per point). Step 4: Join the points into a coherent paragraph. Step 5: Count your words. If over the limit, cut unnecessary adjectives and adverbs.
Own words: what this means
You must change the vocabulary AND the sentence structure. Simply swapping one word for its synonym is not enough. Original: 'The relentless drought devastated the agricultural output of the region.' Own words: 'The farming communities suffered greatly because of the long dry spell.' Notice the sentence structure changed, not just the words.
Key points
- One point = one sentence = one mark (usually)
- Stay within the word limit or lose marks
- Change vocabulary AND sentence structure
- Only include points the question asks about
- Number your points as you find them
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WAEC tip
WAEC summary questions say 'in not more than 120 words.' Count carefully. Going over by even one word can cost you.
Practise this
Summarise in not more than 60 words: 'Technology has transformed how students learn. Online resources give students access to thousands of tutorials. However, unrestricted internet access can distract students from their studies. The solution lies in structured digital learning that combines the best of both worlds.'
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