"Summative assessment" is a means of summing up where a learner, class, school or country has got to in their learning at a particular point in time. Data from this can be used to recognise attainment and gauge progress. It is therefore useful for reporting purposes. This is distinct from assessment for learning (or "formative assessment"), an approach to assessment that runs alongside the learning and informs the teacher and learner about next steps. Summative assessment also provides data for reporting on progress of individuals and establishments. The authors use their third article to discuss summative assessment, its uses, strengths and pitfalls. (Contains 1 box.) [For part II, see EJ935483.]