A summary is a brief overview of a larger piece of information, such as a book, article, or speech. It captures the main ideas and key points while omitting unnecessary details. Summaries help readers quickly understand the essence of the content without having to read everything in full. Creating a summary involves identifying the most important aspects of the original material, such as the main argument or theme. For example, a summary of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet would highlight the tragic love story between the two characters and the consequences of their families' feud, providing a clear picture of the play's core message.