Summary and Analysis

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Summary and analysis have a precise relationship which allows the presentation of one’s interpretation. A summary is acquired through observation of literature. The observations are then compiled as evidence to support an analysis. Ultimately, the analyses offer support to the argument presented in one’s thesis statement. Individual claims, which are encompassed by the thesis, must be supported by relevant summary.

 In general, one should assume their audience has already read the literature in discussion. Therefore, use of summary, must be limited to specific details that relate to the analysis. One must use just enough summary to illustrate their points. A summary is not persuasive but rather informs; answering questions of who, what, where, why and how. It provides a context while excluding opinion. A summary may include sequence of events, specific accounts of scenes and pertaining characters, and descriptions of proceedings in the text. If I were summarizing the television show, “Breaking Bad,” I would say “Breaking Bad” is about a high-school chemistry teacher who is diagnosed with lung cancer and resorts to manufacturing methamphetamine to provide for his family after his death.

 Analysis explains what one infers from the text. Its function is to critically evaluate. This requires the reader to read in between the lines, break the literature into pieces and examine its elements. In examination, it is essential to limit one’s focus to one or two elements. For example, one might choose to focus on a character’s relationship or apparent strengths and weaknesses. After examination, one must formulate an argument that explains meaning. It is important that the meaning of the arguments have significance to the meaning of the text as a whole. Using “Breaking Bad” again, I could argue that society is oppressing the chemistry teacher in the form of inadequate wages which forces him into a moral dilemma. He must prioritize his morals and, at the end of the day, the well-being of his family is of higher value than abiding by the law. Another central area of focus should be portions of the text that, at first glance, do not make sense. These are known as moments of cognitive dissonance. Once evaluated, such portions can provide valuable insight. To learn more about summary versus analysis click here.