Paraphrasing: Putting it in Your Own Words
Paraphrasing is rewriting a passage using different words and sentence structures while maintaining the original meaning. It's a crucial skill for academic writing, note-taking, and everyday communication. Here's how to paraphrase effectively:
1. Understand the Original Meaning:
* Read the passage carefully. Identify the main idea and supporting details.
* Look up unfamiliar words and phrases. Understanding the original text is essential for accurate paraphrasing.
2. Use Different Words and Phrases:
* Replace key words and phrases with synonyms. Use a thesaurus, but be mindful of context and subtle meaning differences.
* Change the sentence structure. Combine sentences, split long ones, or change the order of clauses.
* Rephrase complex ideas using simpler language. Make the passage more accessible to your audience.
3. Maintain the Original Meaning:
* Don't just change a few words. The paraphrase should convey the same information as the original, just in a different way.
* Avoid changing the meaning or adding your own opinions. Stick to accurately representing the original source.
4. Cite the Original Source:
* Paraphrasing is not plagiarism, but it still requires proper attribution. Always cite the original author and source to avoid academic dishonesty.
Example:
Original: "The rapid pace of technological innovation is changing the way we work and live."
Paraphrase: "Advances in technology are transforming our work and lifestyle at an unprecedented speed."
Tips:
* Practice makes perfect. Paraphrasing is a skill that improves with practice.
* Read different sources on the same topic. Comparing different viewpoints helps you understand the subject better and find new ways to express it.
* Ask for feedback from others. Sharing your paraphrases with peers or teachers can help you identify areas for improvement.
Remember: Paraphrasing is a valuable tool for learning, understanding, and communicating information effectively. By following these steps, you can master the art of putting information in your own words and enhance your written and verbal communication skills.