sketch the main points

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sketch the main points" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to provide a brief overview or summary of the key ideas or arguments in a discussion or text. Example: "In your essay, please sketch the main points of your argument in the introduction to give readers a clear understanding of your position."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

We sketch now the main points and prove in detail the parts which differ from that proof.

Boundary Value Problems

For example, an essay about the unification of Italy could sketch out the main points of the argument, such as the multiple obstacles facing unification.

WikiHow

(Sketch) The main point is to show that the obvious surjection begin{aligned} H_2 BG^2, BG^1, {mathbb {Z}}) rightarrow H_2 BG, BG^1, {mathbb {Z}}) end{aligned}reads out algebraically as the surjection (R / [R,R] rightarrow R / [F,R]).

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

uniformly in ξ, η ∈ K. Proof Since the argument is similar to Lemma 4.2, we only sketch the main proof to point out the difference with that of Lemma 4.2 here.

Advances in Difference Equations

We sketch the main ideas of each.

SEP

In the following, we will merely sketch the main ideas.

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

We only sketch the main steps and omit most of the detailed proofs.

Boundary Value Problems

The proof is classical (see, e.g., [8 10]), we only sketch the main steps of the reasoning.

Boundary Value Problems

We briefly sketch the main steps of this reasoning, but refer the reader to Chap.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

Sketching out a rough conclusion (the main points you want to get across) will give you an idea of the best place for the restated thesis before you actually try your hand at writing the restatement.

WikiHow

Some comments will clarify the main points in this sketch.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asked to "sketch the main points", focus on brevity and clarity. Prioritize the most critical information to provide a concise overview.

Common error

Avoid including excessive details when you're asked to "sketch the main points". Stick to the essentials to keep the summary brief and focused.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sketch the main points" functions as a request or instruction to provide a concise summary or outline of the most important aspects of a topic or argument. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

News & Media

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sketch the main points" is a grammatically sound and useful expression for requesting a concise overview or summary. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, it appears across various contexts, including science, academic writing, news, and general explanations. The key to using this phrase effectively is to focus on brevity and clarity, avoiding excessive detail. Alternatives include "outline the key points" or "summarize the key aspects".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outline the key points

Focuses on creating an ordered list of essential items.

summarize the key aspects

Emphasizes a condensed version of important features.

briefly outline the essentials

Highlights the most important elements in a concise manner.

present the core arguments

Focuses on the central justifications or reasons.

give a synopsis of the highlights

Suggests providing a short summary of notable parts.

recapitulate the major themes

Implies restating the overarching subjects or ideas.

offer a concise overview

Highlights providing a brief and comprehensive summary.

go over the central ideas

Indicates reviewing the fundamental concepts.

touch on the principal elements

Suggests briefly mentioning the most important factors.

run through the primary considerations

Implies quickly reviewing the main things to think about.

FAQs

How can I use "sketch the main points" in a sentence?

You can use "sketch the main points" to ask someone to provide a brief overview or summary, for example: "Could you please "sketch the main points" of your presentation before we begin?"

What does "sketch the main points" mean?

"Sketch the main points" means to briefly outline or summarize the key ideas or arguments. It implies providing a concise overview without going into extensive detail.

What are some alternatives to "sketch the main points"?

Alternatives to "sketch the main points" include "outline the key points", "summarize the key aspects", or "briefly outline the essentials".

Is it better to "sketch the main points" or provide a detailed explanation?

The choice depends on the context and purpose. "Sketch the main points" is suitable when a brief overview is needed, while a detailed explanation is appropriate when thorough understanding and comprehensive information are required.