Paraphrasing

Introduction

• Paraphrasing allows you to restate a text in your own words.

• This textbook uses “The Invalid's Story” as an example to teach paraphrasing skills.

What is Paraphrasing?

• Similar to summarizing, but retains the same length as the original text.

• Aims to make a text more understandable, particularly if composed in unusual language or dialects.

Paraphrasing in the Real World

• Useful skill in everyday situations, such as asking for clarification in job interviews or simplifying difficult sections of technical documents.

Practice
Example 1:

• Original: "It seemed judicious to enlarge the facts to fit the probabilities so I said, "Two or three days.""

• Paraphrased: It seemed like a good idea to increase the length of time he had actually been dead to be closer to how long it seemed he had been dead.

Example 2:

• Original: "But he ain't in no trance! No, sir, I go bail for him!"

• Paraphrased: He is really dead! I will vouch for that.

Example 3:

• Original: "Twould 'a' ben a dum sight better, all around, if they'd started him along last summer."

• Paraphrased: It would have been better for everyone if they had sent him for burial last summer (when it smells like he died).

Conclusion

• Paraphrasing is a vital skill applicable in various situations.

• With practice, one can effectively restate texts.

• Paraphrasing aids in conveying the story or narrative clearly.

Quick Notes on Summarizing vs. Paraphrasing

• Summarizing:

• States general idea briefly.

• Uses your own words.

• Includes main ideas only with crucial supporting details.

• Paraphrasing:

• Restates the idea in your own words.

• Usually maintains the same length as the original.

• Focus is on understanding rather than brevity.

• Particularly beneficial when dealing with non-conventional language.