As an expert in the field of writing and summarization, I understand the importance of crafting concise and impactful summaries. A summary is a condensed version of a larger piece of writing, presenting the main points in a clear and concise manner. The number of sentences in a summary can vary greatly depending on the length and complexity of the original text, as well as the desired level of detail in the summary itself.

In newspapers and online writing, a powerful, well-written sentence can often convey the same message as several sentences might in a less polished piece. This underscores the importance of precision and clarity in writing. However, when it comes to structuring a summary, there are some general guidelines that can be helpful.

**Step 1: Understanding the Purpose of a Summary**

The primary purpose of a summary is to provide a brief overview of the main points or arguments presented in a longer work. This can be particularly useful for readers who may not have the time or inclination to read the entire original text. A good summary should capture the essence of the original work without including unnecessary details.

Step 2: Identifying the Key Points

Before you start writing your summary, it's crucial to identify the key points that you want to include. This may involve reading the original text carefully and taking notes on the main ideas and supporting arguments. It's also helpful to look for any introductory or concluding statements, as these can often provide a clear indication of the central themes.

Step 3: Structuring the Summary

Once you have identified the key points, you can begin to structure your summary. A common structure for a summary includes:


1. Introduction: This is where you present the main idea or thesis of the original text. It should be concise and to the point.

2. Supporting Points: These are the arguments or evidence that support the main idea. Depending on the complexity of the original text, you may need one to three sentences for each key point.

3. Conclusion: This is where you wrap up the summary by reiterating the main idea and providing a brief overview of the supporting points.

Step 4: Writing the Summary

When writing your summary, aim for clarity and brevity. Use simple and direct language, and avoid including any information that is not essential to understanding the main points. Remember, the goal is to provide a concise overview, not to reproduce the original text in a shorter form.

Step 5: Reviewing and Revising

After you have written your summary, it's important to review and revise it to ensure that it accurately reflects the original text. Look for any areas where the summary may be unclear or where it may include unnecessary details. Be prepared to make multiple revisions until you are satisfied that the summary is both accurate and concise.

In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how many sentences should be in a summary. The number of sentences will depend on the specific requirements of the task and the length and complexity of the original text. However, by following the steps outlined above, you can create a summary that is both effective and engaging.

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In newspapers and online writing, a powerful, well-written sentence can function just as well as five sentences. Five sentences is usually the maximum guideline for a good paragraph and includes an introductory sentence (or the main idea of a paragraph), one to three supporting sentences, and a concluding sentence.Oct 4, 2017read more >>