What is the main idea of the article?
What is the issue/topic outlined in the first paragraph?
What is the issue/topic outlined in the second paragraph?
What is the issue/topic outlined in the third paragraph?
Continue noting down issues/topics for any remaining paragraphs.
Make a list of the topics above– or make a diagram. [A simple picture of boxes or a spider diagram can often be helpful.]
Write a one or two-sentence account of each section (topic) you identify. Focus your attention on the main point. Leave out any illustrative examples.
Write a sentence which states the central idea of the original text.
Use this (above) as the starting point for writing a paragraph which combines all the points you have made.
The final summary should concisely and accurately capture the central meaning of the original. Write your summary here.
Remember that it must be in your own words.. By writing in this way, you help to re-create the meaning of the original in a way which makes sense for you.