What is the difference between summarizing and paraphrasing?

Summarizing and paraphrasing are both techniques used to convey information from a source in a condensed and more understandable form. However, they differ in their approach and the level of detail they retain from the original text.

Summarizing involves providing a concise overview of the main points, ideas, and arguments presented in a longer piece of writing. When summarizing, you aim to capture the essence of the original text while omitting unnecessary details, examples, and supporting evidence. A summary is typically much shorter than the original source and focuses on conveying the key information in a clear and concise manner.

Paraphrasing, on the other hand, involves restating the information or ideas from the original source in your own words. When paraphrasing, you retain the essential meaning of the original text but express it using different words and sentence structures. It requires a deeper understanding of the source material and the ability to rephrase the content without changing its intended meaning. Paraphrasing allows you to convey the information in a more personalized way while still acknowledging the original source.

In summary, while both summarizing and paraphrasing involve condensing information, summarizing provides a concise overview of the main points, while paraphrasing involves restating the information in your own words while retaining the original meaning.