Having the ability to process, distill, and summarize information is important in many fields. Summarizing is a particularly crucial skill with many applications. Through summaries, we can share important information, updates, lab results, or other information in a concise way that does not require others to take the time to read or listen to the original source. Having strong summarizing skills allows for more collaboration, efficiency, and effectiveness in professional settings.
For the first portion of your Communications Packet, you will select an original text relevant to your field. I say text, but it does not necessarily have to be something written. While you may choose a newspaper article, magazine article, lab results, a scholarly journal, or a blog post, you might also consider a podcast, documentary, conference presentation, or a TED Talk. You have some leeway in what you choose, but make sure it is something relevant to your field.
Once you have chosen a text, write a brief summary. Consider how you might concisely share this information with colleagues. Review chapter 9 for a sample (382) and for best practices in preparing a summary (374-375).
Summary Requirements:
• Introduction names the source and provides context
• Main points are covered clearly and concisely
• Summary is informative and not evaluative
• Summary is ethical and makes the author’s intent clear
• Length is 1/2 – 3/4 page (one page maximum)