What information should a summary include? what shouldn't be included?

A summary should include the main points, key ideas, and important details of a text, speech, or event. It should provide a condensed version of the original content, allowing readers or listeners to quickly grasp the essential information without having to go through the entire source.

In general, a summary should not include personal opinions, unrelated or extraneous information, or minor details. It should focus on the most important aspects of the original content, avoiding unnecessary repetitions or explanations. Moreover, while a summary may involve paraphrasing or rephrasing, it should not distort the original meaning or misrepresent the author's intent.