Wikipedia:How to write a plot summary: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 12:32, 6 January 2025

Revision as of 12:58, 6 January 2025

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{{Shortcut|WP:PLOTCITE}}

{{Further|WP:PLOTSOURCE}}

Citations about the work of fiction generally (that is, cites addressing the commentary, impact or other real-world relevance of the work) are [[Wikipedia:No original research#Primary, secondary and tertiary sources|secondary sources]] no different from citations of non-fictional topics. All interpretation, synthesis or analysis of the plot must be based upon some secondary source.

A plot summary is usually based on the work of fiction itself. In that case, citations are only needed when including notable quotes from the work. A plot summary can be based on other published plot summaries, but this risks excessive loss of context and detail. While consulting other summaries may be helpful in narrowing down on what the major plot elements are, be sure to consult the primary source material to make sure you get it right.

ACitations about the plot summary isitself, usuallyhowever, basedmay onrefer to the primary source—the work of fiction itself. InFor that caseexample, primary source citations are only neededappropriate when including notable quotes from the work, citing the act/chapter/page/verse/etc. Aof plotthe summaryquote canwithin bethe basedwork. onFor otherconsolidated articles discussing a work published plotor summariesbroadcast in a serial form, buta thiscitation to the individual issue or episode is appropriate and should be included to help readers to verify the summary. Plot summaries written purely from other summaries risksrisk excessive loss of context and detail. While consulting other summaries may be helpful in narrowing down on what the major plot elements are, be sure to consult the primary source material to make sure you get it right.

==Case study: Little Red Riding Hood==