How should the length of a summary compare to the original text being summarized?

The length of a summary should be concise and shorter than the original text being summarized. This is because the purpose of a summary is to distill the main ideas, concepts, and key points of the original material into a more digestible format. By being brief, the summary allows readers to grasp the essential information without having to read through all the details of the original text. A well-crafted summary highlights the most important aspects clearly and succinctly, which can enhance understanding and retention of the material. This approach helps to maintain the focus on the core message, providing an efficient way for readers to engage with the content.