What is the primary difference between a summary and a paraphrase?

The primary difference between a summary and a paraphrase lies in their respective purposes and methods. A summary focuses on condensing the main ideas of a text, presenting its overall message in a more concise form. It captures the essential points without going into the detailed nuances of the original wording. This enables readers to grasp the core concepts without having to read the entire text.

In contrast, a paraphrase involves restating the original text using different words and sentence structures, aiming to maintain the original meaning while altering its expression. A paraphrase is typically more detailed than a summary, as it may cover specific points and ideas from the original text without omitting significant details. It does not condense the information; instead, it rearticulates it.

Understanding this distinction is essential for effective reading comprehension and communication, as it allows one to appropriately convey information in various contexts, whether for clarity, brevity, or emphasis.