What is the process of capturing the main ideas of a text in one's own words?

The process of capturing the main ideas of a text in one's own words is known as summarization. This involves distilling the core concepts and essential information of a piece of writing into a concise form. When summarizing, the focus is on the overarching themes and key points, rather than every detail. This skill is essential for understanding and communicating the essence of a text without copying it verbatim.

In contrast, paraphrasing involves rewording a specific passage with similar meaning while maintaining the original length and complexity, which is not the same as summarizing. Quoting involves directly using the exact words from a source, and analysis refers to examining and interpreting information rather than condensing it. Therefore, summarization effectively captures the main ideas in a simplified way, making it a fundamental skill in literacy and comprehension.