What is meant by the term 'gist' in a written piece?

The term 'gist' refers to the main point or essence of a written piece. It captures the fundamental idea or theme that the author communicates, distilling the content down to its most crucial elements. Understanding the gist allows readers to grasp the overall message without getting bogged down in details. This concept is vital for comprehension, particularly when engaging with longer or more complex texts, as it helps readers focus on what is truly important in the material. By identifying the gist, readers can better understand the author's argument or narrative direction, leading to more effective interpretation and retention of the material.