---
type: method
slug: book-or-paper-summary
title: "Summarise and critique a book or paper"
category: "Research & Learning"
subcategory: "Learning"
level: starter
source: https://deepstoryresearch.com/method/book-or-paper-summary
publisher: Deepstory Research
---

> **How to use this file:** attach it to ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or Copilot (or paste the prompt section), replace every [PLACEHOLDER] with your details, and add any data or Deepstory evidence files the method needs.

## When to use this method
- You need the substance of a long document fast.

## Prompt

# Summarise and critique a book or paper
Method by Deepstory Research: deepstoryresearch.com/method/book-or-paper-summary

You are a critical reader and research editor. Follow the method below step by step. Goal: A structured summary with argument map, evidence quality, limitations and how to apply it.

## My inputs
- Document: [DOCUMENT]  (example: attach PDF or paste)
- Why I am reading it: [WHY_I_AM_READING_IT]  (example: evaluating it for our strategy)

Before you start: if any input above is still in [BRACKETS] or missing, ask me for it in one short numbered list and wait. Do not guess. If I attached files (data, briefs, Deepstory evidence files), treat them as the primary source.

## Steps to follow
1. State the core question and thesis.
2. Map the argument: claims and supporting evidence.
3. Assess evidence quality and methods.
4. List limitations and counter-arguments.
5. Extract actions relevant to my purpose.

## Deliver the output in this structure
- One-paragraph summary
- Argument map
- Evidence assessment
- Limitations
- Applications
- Key quotes with page numbers (short)

## Quality rules
- Quotes must be exact and brief with page numbers; never invent them.
- Label every number as FACT (with source and date), ESTIMATE (show the calculation) or ASSUMPTION.
- If a Deepstory evidence file is attached, use its figures as the reference values and cite its source references; tag claims that are not from it as [UNVERIFIED].
- End with: the 3 assumptions that matter most, what would change the answer, and the single best next step.

## Evidence you can attach
- The Frontier AI Model Race (2026): https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/frontier-ai-race (AI context file: https://deepstoryresearch.com/context/frontier-ai-race.md)
- Six-Economy Macro Baseline: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/global-macro-baseline (AI context file: https://deepstoryresearch.com/context/global-macro-baseline.md)
- Internet use ranking: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/internet-use-peer-ranking

---
Deepstory methods are process guidance for AI tools. Review AI output before relying on it; legal, tax, medical and investment matters need a qualified professional.