How to Write a Story Summary Magazine Editors Will Love

A well-written summary is short and easy to read. The purpose of a summary is to give editors (and readers, too) a brief rundown of the main idea, key points or important details of the original piece without inserting a personal opinion. It provides a basic understanding of what they’re about to read or see. 

1. Identify the main idea 

Clearly and concisely convey the main idea and the underlying meaning of the article in the first sentence. First, pick the major point you want to communicate. Then, try to answer basic questions: Who or what is it about? What happened? When did it take place? Where did it take place? Why did it happen? How did it happen? 

2. Keep it short and to the point 

A great summary condenses a lot of information into a small space. It is much shorter than the original piece and explains only the most important details, notions or arguments.