When it comes to reading or writing a piece of content, two terms that are often used interchangeably are extract and summary. However, they are not the same thing, and it’s important to understand the difference between the two. In this article, we will explore the definitions of extract and summary, and why it’s important to use the correct term.
Extract and summary are both ways of condensing information, but they have different meanings.
An extract is a portion of a text that has been taken out and presented on its own. It is a direct quote or passage that has been extracted from a larger piece of content, such as a book or article. An extract is used to highlight a specific point or idea in the original text, and is often used to support an argument or provide evidence.
A summary, on the other hand, is a brief overview of the main points of a larger piece of content. It is a condensed version of the original text that aims to provide the reader with a general understanding of the content without going into too much detail. A summary is often used to give readers an idea of what a piece of content is about, without having to read the entire thing.
Now that we understand the difference between extract and summary, let’s dive deeper into why it’s important to use the correct term.
Define Extract
An extract is a portion of a larger text that has been taken out and presented as a standalone piece of information. It can be a paragraph, a section, or even a chapter. The purpose of an extract is to highlight a specific point or idea from the larger text without providing the full context.
Extracts are commonly used in academic writing, research papers, and news articles. They are a way to provide readers with a concise and focused piece of information without overwhelming them with unnecessary details.
Define Summary
A summary is a shortened version of a larger text that includes all the main points and ideas. It condenses the information into a more manageable format, making it easier for readers to understand the key concepts without having to read the entire text.
Summaries are commonly used in academic writing, research papers, and business reports. They are a way to provide readers with an overview of the main ideas and arguments presented in a text without having to read the entire document.
Unlike extracts, summaries provide a comprehensive overview of the entire text, rather than focusing on a specific point or idea.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to writing, using the right words in the right context is crucial. In this section, we will discuss how to properly use the words “extract” and “summary” in a sentence.
How To Use “Extract” In A Sentence
The word “extract” refers to taking a portion or piece of something larger. It is often used in the context of literature, where a passage or quote is extracted from a larger work. Here are some examples of how to use “extract” in a sentence:
- She extracted the key from her pocket and unlocked the door.
- The recipe called for a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- The author included an extract from his upcoming novel in the magazine.
As you can see, “extract” can be used in various ways, but it always refers to taking something out of a larger whole.
How To Use “Summary” In A Sentence
The word “summary” refers to a brief statement or account of the main points of something. It is often used in the context of summarizing a longer piece of writing or speech. Here are some examples of how to use “summary” in a sentence:
- Can you give me a summary of the book you just read?
- The executive gave a summary of the company’s financial performance.
- The news anchor provided a summary of the day’s top stories.
As you can see, “summary” is used to give a condensed version of something, highlighting the main points or ideas.
More Examples Of Extract & Summary Used In Sentences
In order to better understand the differences between extract and summary, it can be helpful to see how these terms are used in sentences. Here are some examples of how extract and summary can be used in context:
Examples Of Using Extract In A Sentence
- She used an extract from the novel to support her argument.
- The recipe called for an extract of vanilla.
- The scientist was able to extract DNA from the sample.
- The journalist used an extract from the interview in her article.
- The company was able to extract valuable minerals from the mine.
- The artist used an extract of natural dyes to create the vibrant colors in her painting.
- The doctor recommended an extract of echinacea to boost the patient’s immune system.
- The chef used an extract of truffles to flavor the dish.
- The researcher was able to extract useful data from the study.
- The perfume contained an extract of rose petals.
Examples Of Using Summary In A Sentence
- Can you give me a summary of the main points in the presentation?
- The summary of the article was included in the newsletter.
- The executive provided a summary of the company’s financial performance.
- The teacher asked the students to write a summary of the book.
- The summary of the movie was posted on the website.
- The report included a summary of the findings.
- The summary of the meeting was distributed to all attendees.
- The lawyer presented a summary of the case to the jury.
- The article provided a summary of the history of the company.
- The summary of the research was published in the journal.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using extract and summary, many people make the mistake of using these terms interchangeably. However, this is incorrect and can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Using Extract When You Mean Summary
Extract and summary are not the same thing. An extract is a portion of the original text that is taken out and used as is. A summary, on the other hand, is a condensed version of the original text that captures the main points. Using extract when you mean summary can lead to confusion and misunderstanding. For example, if you provide an extract instead of a summary in a report, the reader may not be able to quickly grasp the key takeaways.
2. Using Summary When You Mean Extract
Similarly, using summary when you mean extract can also lead to confusion. If you provide a summary instead of an extract, the reader may miss out on important details that were included in the original text. For example, if you provide a summary of a research paper instead of an extract, the reader may not be able to fully understand the methodology or results.
3. Not Providing Proper Attribution
Another common mistake is not providing proper attribution when using extract or summary. It is important to give credit to the original source and author. Failure to do so can result in plagiarism and damage to your credibility. Make sure to include proper citations and references.
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes:
- Make sure you understand the difference between extract and summary
- Double-check your work to ensure you are using the correct term
- Provide proper attribution and citations
- When in doubt, consult a style guide or ask for clarification
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between an extract and a summary, the context in which they are used plays a crucial role in making the decision. The choice between the two depends on the purpose of the content, the target audience, and the medium through which it is being presented.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Let’s take a look at some different contexts and how the choice between extract and summary might change:
Academic Writing
In academic writing, the choice between extract and summary depends on the purpose of the content. If the purpose is to provide an overview of a particular topic, a summary would be appropriate. On the other hand, if the purpose is to provide a detailed analysis of a particular text, an extract would be more suitable. For instance, if you are writing a literature review, you might use a summary to provide an overview of the key themes and arguments in a particular text. However, if you are analyzing a specific passage from a text, you might use an extract to provide a more detailed analysis of that passage.
Journalism
In journalism, the choice between extract and summary depends on the target audience and the medium through which the content is being presented. If the target audience is a general audience, a summary would be more appropriate as it provides a quick overview of the key points. However, if the target audience is a specialized audience, an extract might be more suitable as it provides a more detailed analysis of the topic. For example, if you are writing a news article for a general audience, you might use a summary to provide a quick overview of the key points. However, if you are writing an in-depth analysis of a particular topic for a specialized audience, you might use an extract to provide a more detailed analysis of that topic.
Marketing
In marketing, the choice between extract and summary depends on the purpose of the content and the target audience. If the purpose is to provide a quick overview of a product or service, a summary would be more appropriate. However, if the purpose is to provide a detailed analysis of a product or service, an extract might be more suitable. For example, if you are writing a product description for a general audience, you might use a summary to provide a quick overview of the key features. However, if you are writing a technical specification for a specialized audience, you might use an extract to provide a more detailed analysis of the product features.
Overall, the choice between extract and summary depends on the context in which they are used. By understanding the purpose of the content, the target audience, and the medium through which it is being presented, you can make an informed decision on which one to use.
Exceptions To The Rules
While extract and summary are generally used in specific contexts, there are some exceptions where the rules might not apply. In these cases, it is important to understand the nuances of each situation to determine the appropriate approach.
Exceptions For Using Extract
One exception to using an extract is when the original source material is not available. In this case, an extract may be the only way to convey the information accurately. For example, if a historical document is lost or damaged, an extract may be created based on available fragments or secondary sources.
Another exception is when the extract is used for educational or research purposes. In these cases, the use of an extract may fall under fair use guidelines, allowing for the use of copyrighted material without permission from the owner. However, it is important to ensure that the extract is limited in scope and does not infringe on the owner’s rights.
Exceptions For Using Summary
One exception to using a summary is when the original source material is too complex or lengthy to be easily understood by the intended audience. In this case, a summary can provide a simplified version of the information. For example, a scientific research paper may be summarized for a non-expert audience to understand the key findings.
Another exception is when the summary is used to provide an overview or introduction to a larger work. In this case, the summary can provide context and background information to help the reader understand the main work. For example, a summary of a book may be included on the back cover to entice readers to purchase and read the full book.
| Extract | Summary |
|---|---|
| Original source material is not available | Original source material is too complex or lengthy |
| Used for educational or research purposes under fair use guidelines | Used to provide an overview or introduction to a larger work |
Practice Exercises
Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between extract and summary, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice. Here are some exercises that will help you improve your understanding and use of extract and summary in sentences:
Exercise 1: Extract Or Summary?
Read the following paragraphs and determine whether the highlighted text is an extract or a summary:
| Paragraph | Extract/Summary |
|---|---|
| The article discusses the benefits of exercise for overall health and wellness. It highlights the importance of incorporating physical activity into your daily routine and suggests various types of exercises that can be done at home or at the gym. | Summary |
| According to a recent study, people who consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables have a lower risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The study also found that consuming a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables is particularly beneficial. | Summary |
| In his book, “The Great Gatsby,” F. Scott Fitzgerald tells the story of Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man who becomes obsessed with a woman named Daisy Buchanan. The novel explores themes of love, wealth, and the American Dream. | Summary |
| “The Great Gatsby” is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald that was first published in 1925. The story is set in the fictional town of West Egg on Long Island and follows the life of Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man who becomes involved with a woman named Daisy Buchanan. The novel is considered a classic of American literature and is often studied in high school and college English classes. | Extract |
Exercise 2: Writing Extracts And Summaries
Now it’s time to practice writing your own extracts and summaries. Use the following paragraphs to create an extract and a summary:
Paragraph 1:
The history of the internet dates back to the 1960s, when the U.S. Department of Defense developed a system called ARPANET to facilitate communication between different branches of the military. Over time, ARPANET evolved into the internet we know today, connecting billions of people around the world.
Paragraph 2:
Artificial intelligence, or AI, refers to the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation. AI is a rapidly growing field with applications in a wide range of industries.
Extract: The U.S. Department of Defense developed ARPANET in the 1960s to facilitate communication between different branches of the military. ARPANET evolved into the internet we know today.
Summary: The internet was originally developed by the U.S. Department of Defense in the 1960s to facilitate communication between different branches of the military. Today, the internet connects billions of people around the world. Artificial intelligence, or AI, is a rapidly growing field that involves the development of computer systems that can perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence.
Make sure to check your answers using the answer keys or explanations provided below:
Answer Keys/explanations
Exercise 1: The highlighted text in the first three paragraphs is a summary, while the highlighted text in the fourth paragraph is an extract.
Exercise 2: The extract for paragraph 1 should include the key information about the development of the internet, while the summary should provide a brief overview of the history and significance of the internet. The extract for paragraph 2 should include the definition of AI and its applications, while the summary should provide a general overview of the field of AI.
Conclusion
After exploring the fundamental differences between extract and summary, it is clear that both serve distinct purposes in writing, reading, and research. Extracts are comprehensive and detailed representations of a text, while summaries condense the most critical information into a concise format.
It is essential to understand the distinctions between extract and summary to utilize them effectively and efficiently. Extracts are useful for in-depth analysis, research, and critical evaluation of a text. On the other hand, summaries are beneficial for quick reference, comprehension, and general understanding of a text.
It is also crucial to note that both extracts and summaries require a high level of language proficiency and grammatical accuracy to convey the intended meaning effectively. Therefore, it is essential to continue learning about grammar and language use to enhance one’s writing and reading skills.
Key Takeaways From The Article:
- Extracts are detailed and comprehensive representations of a text.
- Summaries condense critical information into a concise format.
- Extracts are useful for in-depth analysis, research, and critical evaluation of a text.
- Summaries are beneficial for quick reference, comprehension, and general understanding of a text.
- Both extracts and summaries require a high level of language proficiency and grammatical accuracy.
By understanding the differences between extract and summary and their respective uses, readers can improve their writing and reading skills and effectively communicate their ideas.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.