Summarize

Techniques > Conversation techniques > Closing the conversation > Summarize

Description | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Summarize what has been already been said.

Take what the other person has said and what you have said and extract the essential points, phrasing them concisely and in clear language. If there are actions to be completed, state these, who will do them and when.

Then ask the other person if they agree.

You can then test whether there is any other items to talk about before completing.

Example

So, you want to go to the movies tonight, but James does not want to go out with you. Is that right?

Can I check what we have agreed? I am going to talk with Margaret about your problems with the way she is treating you. I'll catch her tomorrow some time. I'll then get back to you on Tuesday. Is that ok for you?

Discussion

Summarizing sends closure signals to the other person, indicating that there is nothing more to say.

This method is often more appropriate in work or other relatively formal situations, where the topic is factual or is otherwise relatively easily summarized.