A 'direct quotation', a paraphrase, and a summary
A ‘direct quotation’ is a statement of the exact words said by a speaker or an author. For instance, “My organization has a zero tolerance policy to sexual harassment”, said Thomas Cook, the founder of ABC company. A paraphrase is a reiteration of a speech, text or a passage using other words but the same meaning. The above example can be paraphrased as follows, ABC company has developed a policy that strictly condemns any act of sexual harassment. A summary is a brief statement of the main points in a passage, speech, or an article. The person writing summary focuses on the main points to inform readers about the main arguments in a speech or findings of a research.
Usage of Direct Quotations, Paraphrasing, and Summaries
Direct quotations are used when a writer intends to emphasize a point, give an example, or show how historical figures said about a current issue or event. For example, a writer can emphasize a point by quoting what famous human rights activists like Martin Luther King Junior said about racial discrimination. Paraphrasing is used effectively when a writer or a speaker wants to explain someone else's ideas in support of his or her argument. For instance, a writer who is explaining the effects of climate change on human health can use data or statements released by the state departments of health and the environment to support his or her arguments. Summary is used effectively when stating the main ideas or relevant details of a piece of writing, art, or film that one has watched. A person reading summary should understand what the piece is about without reading or watching the entire piece. Thus, summaries can appear either before or after a piece.
