To explain how both paraphrasing and summarizing work, here is a brief example of how each of the two functions operates:
1. Paraphrasing – It’s all about style and grammar
The simplest way of explaining paraphrasing is to put it in the context of what it actually means. We do this all the time, in our communication with other people. We phrase our remarks and statements in a way that are more appropriate for the listener. This type of paraphrasing is done by rewriting the words that have the meaning, but don’t fit with the style of the original text.
2. Summarizing – A succinct representation of the meaning
There is a lot more to a paraphrase than simply writing the words as they are found in the source text. The paraphraser must understand how the speaker or author of the source text conveyed the content. It then goes on to paraphrase or summarize it. However, instead of providing a literal representation of the original text, the paraphrase gives a more readable and easier to understand message.
3. Proofreading – The step that fixes errors
Meanwhile, proofreading is about fixing errors in a text. If there are any issues with grammar, punctuation, spelling, and word order, proofreading is the step that solves those problems. During proofreading, you try to stick to the original words as much as possible without paraphrasing. Proofreading makes your text error-free and more clear.