Summary and paraphrase are both techniques used to restate information in one's own words, but they have some key differences:
1. Length: A summary is a condensed version of the original text, capturing the main points and omitting unnecessary details. It is typically much shorter than the original. On the other hand, a paraphrase is usually of similar length to the original text, as it aims to rephrase each sentence or idea in a way that retains the same meaning.
2. Level of Detail: A summary provides a general overview of the main ideas, often omitting specific examples or supporting details. It focuses on the big picture and the most important information. In contrast, a paraphrase aims to retain as much detail as possible while rephrasing the original text. It includes specific examples and supporting details.
3. Structure: A summary typically follows a structure that mirrors the original text, with an introduction, body, and conclusion. It may also include headings or subheadings to organize the main points. A paraphrase, however, does not necessarily follow a specific structure. It can be organized in a way that makes the most sense for the rephrased content.
4. Language Use: A summary uses concise and clear language to convey the main ideas. It avoids using the same wording as the original text and focuses on presenting the information in a new way. A paraphrase, on the other hand, aims to rephrase each sentence or idea using different words while retaining the original meaning. It may still use some similar vocabulary or sentence structure, but overall, it should sound different from the original text.
5. Purpose: A summary is often used to provide a brief overview of a longer text, allowing readers to quickly grasp the main points without reading the entire piece. It is useful for condensing information and presenting it in a more digestible format. A paraphrase, on the other hand, is used to restate information in a way that clarifies or simplifies the original text. It is often used to explain complex ideas or to avoid plagiarism by using one's own words.