* The main idea or central topic: What is the text primarily about? This is the most important element.
* Key supporting details: The most important facts, examples, or evidence that support the main idea. This excludes minor or less crucial information.
* The author's purpose: Why did the author write this text? (To inform, persuade, explain, etc.) This can often be implied rather than explicitly stated.
* Conciseness: A summary is significantly shorter than the original text. It focuses on the essence of the information, omitting unnecessary details.
* Objectivity: A good summary presents the information accurately and neutrally, avoiding personal opinions or biases. It reflects the information presented in the original text.
It *does not* include:
* Your opinions or interpretations: Stick to what the text explicitly states.
* Irrelevant details: Focus only on information directly related to the main idea.
* Excessive wordiness: Use clear and concise language.
* Direct quotes (usually): While a rare quote might be used strategically, most summaries paraphrase the original text.
Essentially, a good summary acts as a miniature version of the original text, capturing its core message and essential supporting information.