# Reading Summary & Key Takeaways Extractor

Summarizes a textbook chapter, article, or assigned reading into a clear overview, key takeaways, and discussion-ready questions.

## Prompt

Summarize the following reading for a {{course_level}} class on {{subject}}:

{{reading_text}}

Produce:
1. A 3-5 sentence overview of the main argument or content.
2. A bulleted list of 5-8 key takeaways, in the order they appear in the text.
3. Any important names, dates, terms, or figures mentioned, with a one-line note on why each matters.
4. Two questions the reading raises that would be good for class discussion or an essay prompt.
5. A note on anything that seems unclear, contradictory, or likely to be tested, based on how the text emphasizes it.

Do not add outside information not present in the text; summarize only what's given.

## Best for

Students who need to quickly digest a long reading assignment before class discussion or a quiz, without losing the important details.

## Compatible tools

- Claude
- ChatGPT
- Gemini

## How to use

- Paste the full reading text, or as much of it as you have access to, for the most accurate summary.
- Set course_level and subject so terminology and depth match your class expectations.
- Use the discussion questions to prepare talking points before a seminar or as essay prompt ideas.

## Customization tips

- Ask for a shorter 'one paragraph only' version if you just need a quick refresher before class.
- Request a comparison summary if you're reading two texts on the same topic, by pasting both and asking for similarities and differences.
- Add 'flag any bias or one-sided framing in the text' for critical reading assignments.

## Example input

course_level: undergraduate, subject: political science, reading_text: [pasted chapter on federalism and states' rights]

## Example output

Overview: The chapter examines the historical development of federalism in the U.S., focusing on tension between federal and state authority... Key takeaways: (1) The Constitution divides power between federal and state governments through enumerated and reserved powers, (2) Landmark Supreme Court cases like McCulloch v. Maryland expanded federal authority... Important terms: 'Enumerated powers' - powers explicitly granted to the federal government, matters because it defines the scope of federal authority... Discussion questions: How has the balance of federal versus state power shifted since the 1930s? What are the strongest arguments for and against greater federal authority today? Unclear/likely tested: the chapter emphasizes the Tenth Amendment heavily, suggesting it may be a key exam focus.