One way to do this is by summarizing the essay one paragraph at a time. But keep in mind that in some cases a point may be extended over several paragraphs. In these cases, you could summarize a whole section in one paragraph.1. Begin your paper with a statement about what Ongs thesis is (the main point you believe he is using his examples and stories to make). The best way to identify or infer the essays thesis is by looking for sentences or paragraphs where all the key concepts converge. In Ongs essay, he actually states it in his title. Youll need to put it in your own terms.2. Generally the amount of space a writer gives to a particular point in his/her writing should determine how much space you give it in your summary. So plan ahead. Divide your time so that you dont end up giving too much time and space to the beginning parts of the essay and run out of time and space to cover the rest of it adequately. Preview the essay first to see how it is divided.3. Quote directly (and briefly!) from Ong on occasion: particularly when you want to show the reader that your assessment of his points is accurate. Use the Quotation Sandwich principle of framing a quote with your own words. Quote him directly, and put the page number in parentheses at the end of the sentence in which the quotation appears. Avoid quotes within quotes (what you are describing is what Ong argues, not what others whom he cites argue). And do not place quotes back to back. Your paper should be Ongs ideas in your own words.4. Use transitions, like Ongs next point is and After demonstrating X, Ong discusses Y. These will let the reader see the moves Ong makes as he takes the reader through his argument.
