Summary Function
Taken together, all of the headings represent a summary of the text by
identifying the key propositions and the relationships between them. This is the
overall function of headings. It can be conceived as a combination
and
extension of the content function and the structural function of headings.
Consequently, if both of these functions have been properly done, the text will
automatically perform its summary function.
Designing Headings
When designing headings a writer
needs to ensure that the headings perform
each function properly. Each heading must correctly describe the material that
shelters under it (the content function). The headings must portray the overall
structure of the part of the text in which they are located (the structural
function). In combination, as already stated, the content and structural
functions perform the summary function.
How does a heading depict the material underneath it? Since a heading is
usually brief it needs to summarise or represent the key features or major thrust
of this material. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure that everything
under a heading falls within its purview. If it does not, either change the
heading or change the location of the stray material.
How does a heading play its role in portraying the overall structure of the part
of the text in which it is located? Obviously an individual heading does this in
conjunction with the other headings in that location. Hence the writer needs to
survey the full range of these headings. Then they design each heading so that
the range of headings tells the story. Their aim is to put a reader in the position
where, just by reading the headings, they can understand the flow of ideas.
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This happens without the need for connecting words, phrases or comments in
the text itself (although there may be good reason for the writer to use these
also).
How this flow is achieved obviously depends on the subject. Sometimes
repetition of a word or phrase in successive headings, or using contrasting
words, will help to portray the structure. To repeat the major point, the aim is
that the headings are so framed
that reading the headings alone reveals the
structure of the text.
This flow of ideas will vary in intensity and degree. At one extreme the
relationship will be close, while at the other extreme, the flow of ideas is just a
set of important points with their own relation to the topic. This can be
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An example of this is the illustration given in Chapter 3 General
Structure of a Text of an essay on positivism.
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