Summarize:
* Focus: The most important points or key information.
* Goal: To condense a large amount of information into a brief overview.
* Example: Summarizing a news article by stating the main event, who was involved, and the outcome.
Describe:
* Focus: Detailed and specific characteristics.
* Goal: To create a vivid picture in the reader's mind.
* Example: Describing a person's appearance, personality, and mannerisms.
Here's a table to further illustrate the difference:
| Feature | Summarize | Describe |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Key information | Detailed characteristics |
| Goal | Condense information | Create a vivid picture |
| Length | Brief | Can be long or short |
| Emphasis | Important points | Specific details |
In essence, you summarize to convey the gist of something, and you describe to provide a detailed picture.
Examples:
* Summarize: "The movie was about a group of friends who go on a road trip."
* Describe: "The movie follows a group of misfit friends, each with their own quirky personalities, who embark on a spontaneous cross-country adventure in a beat-up old van. The journey is filled with unexpected detours, hilarious encounters, and moments of heartfelt reflection."
Let me know if you have any other questions!