1. At the beginning (Introduction): This is the most common placement for a summary, especially in academic essays. The summary usually appears in the last sentence or two of the introduction, after the thesis statement is presented. This gives the reader a clear understanding of the essay's main points before diving into the details.
2. At the end (Conclusion): This approach is also common and allows the writer to restate the main arguments and provide a final, concise overview of the essay. This works particularly well for persuasive essays or those that explore a complex topic.
3. Both at the beginning and the end: Some essays may include a brief summary in the introduction and a more comprehensive summary in the conclusion. This helps reinforce the main points and ensures the reader fully understands the essay's central message.
4. Within the body paragraphs: This is less common, but some essays may include summaries within the body paragraphs to transition between sections or to highlight specific points.
Ultimately, the placement of the summary depends on the essay's structure, purpose, and the writer's personal style. There's no single "right" answer, but the most important thing is to make sure the summary is clear, concise, and accurately reflects the essay's key arguments.