Which statement best describes a summary?

A summary is intended to provide a concise overview that captures the main ideas and essence of a text without delving into exhaustive detail. It condenses the primary themes and arguments, allowing readers to grasp the core message quickly. By focusing on the overarching ideas rather than every single point, a summary serves as an effective tool for comprehension and retention.

The other options do not align with the purpose of a summary. A detailed account of every point would create an extensive description rather than a concise overview. A critique focuses on evaluating the writing techniques rather than summarizing content. Similarly, a restatement of each paragraph would lead to a lengthy reiteration that misses the brevity and focus of a true summary. Thus, opting for an overview that encapsulates the main ideas is the most accurate definition of a summary.