What Is Summarize Written Text?

You read a passage of up to 300 words and must write a single sentence of between 5 and 75 words that captures the main idea. You have 10 minutes per item.

Scoring Criteria

• Content (up to 2 points) — the sentence accurately reflects the main point of the passage
• Form (up to 1 point) — it is a single, grammatically complete sentence within the word limit
• Grammar (up to 1 point) — correct grammar throughout
• Vocabulary (up to 1 point) — appropriate word choices; paraphrased where possible

The One-Sentence Formula

Build a complex sentence using a main clause and one or two subordinate clauses:

“[Main topic] [verb phrase], which/because [supporting idea], suggesting/demonstrating that [implication/conclusion].”

Example: “Urban migration has accelerated across developing nations, driven by rural unemployment and the promise of better services, which has placed severe strain on city infrastructure and social systems.”

Step-by-Step Process

1. Read the passage quickly (2 min). Underline the topic sentence of each paragraph.
2. Identify: What is the ONE main idea? What is the most important supporting detail?
3. Draft your sentence (3 min): main clause → subordinate clause → implication.
4. Check (2 min): Is it one sentence? Is it 5–75 words? Are grammar and spelling correct?

Common Mistakes

• Writing more than one sentence — scores zero on Form.
• Copying a sentence directly from the text — penalised for vocabulary.
• Including minor details instead of the main idea.
• Forgetting a full stop — the sentence is then incomplete.

Quick Reference