Best Summary
Selection
Learn how to pick the one summary that captures the whole passage: not too big, not too small, and never wrong.
What is a Summary?
A summary is a short retelling of a passage. It tells the most important idea in just a sentence or two: leaving out the small details.
The Big Idea vs. Small Details
Why It Matters
On the ISEE, reading questions often ask: "Which sentence best summarizes the passage?" Knowing how to spot the best summary helps you read faster and answer more confidently.
The Best Summary Rule
Just the Right Size
Summary vs. Detail
| Best Summary | Just a Detail | |
|---|---|---|
| How much it covers | The whole passage | One small part |
| Is it true? | Always true | Often true |
| Test answer? | Correct choice | Tempting trap |
How to Choose the Best Summary
Worked Example One
Ask yourself: What is the passage mostly about? It is about how bees help plants grow.
Example One: The Choices
Worked Example Two
What is it mostly about? Maria improved at the piano by practicing.
Example Two: The Choices
Worked Example Three
Common Mistakes
Quick Checklist
| Ask yourself | Best Summary? |
|---|---|
| Is it true? | Yes |
| Does it cover the whole passage? | Yes |
| Is it only one detail? | No |
| Is it too broad or general? | No |
Question 1 of 5
Frogs change as they grow. They begin life as tiny eggs in the water. The eggs hatch into tadpoles that swim and breathe with gills. Slowly, tadpoles grow legs and lose their tails. At last, they become frogs that can live on land.
Which sentence best summarizes the passage?
Question 2 of 5
Tom forgot his lunch at home. His friend Sam noticed Tom looked sad at lunchtime. Without a word, Sam shared half of his sandwich. Tom smiled and thanked him. They ate together and laughed.
Which is the best summary?
Question 3 of 5
Recycling helps our planet. When we recycle paper, fewer trees are cut down. When we recycle cans, less new metal must be dug up. Recycling saves energy and keeps trash out of the ground.
Which choice is the best summary?
Question 4 of 5
The lighthouse stood on the rocky shore. Its bright light spun around all night long. Ships far out at sea could see the light. The light warned sailors to stay away from the dangerous rocks.
Which sentence best summarizes the passage?
Question 5 of 5
Penguins live where it is very cold. They huddle together in big groups to stay warm. The penguins on the outside slowly trade places with the ones in the middle. This way, every penguin gets a turn to be warm.
Which is the best summary?