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How to summarise a long document with free AI
In short: Copy the text, remove private details, paste it into a free chatbot and ask for a short summary plus a list of actions and deadlines. Pasting text works more reliably on free plans than uploading files.
Checked: 18 Oct 2026, prices and features change. · Last updated:
Step by step
- Copy the text of the email, letter or document.
- Remove names, account numbers and addresses.
- Paste it into the chatbot with: "Summarise this in 3 bullet points, then list anything I need to do and by when."
- Check the deadlines and amounts against the original.
Why paste instead of upload?
Free plans often limit file uploads. For example, OpenAI lists uploads as limited on the free ChatGPT plan. Very long documents can also go over a free plan's length limit. If that happens, paste the document in parts.
Recipes
Common questions
Can AI summarise a PDF for free?
Often, yes, but upload limits vary by chatbot and plan. Copying the text out of the PDF and pasting it always works.
Can I trust the summary?
Mostly, but summaries can drop or change details. Always check dates, amounts and anything you need to act on.
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