What is the function of a summary?

A summary serves to concisely convey the main points or themes of a text. Its primary purpose is to distill the essential elements of a larger piece of writing into a brief presentation that captures the core ideas without unnecessary detail. This allows readers to grasp the overall message and significance of the text quickly.

In contrast, options like providing a detailed analysis or critiquing the work require a deeper engagement with the text, focusing on interpretation, evaluation, or commentary, which goes beyond the fundamental intent of a summary. Similarly, elaborating on secondary characters and subplots delves into specifics that a summary intentionally omits to maintain brevity and clarity. Thus, the function of a summary is centered on clarity and conciseness, making option B the correct choice.