Article: Using a tape measure, make a pencil mark in the center of each post. This will probably be between between 36 inches (91 cm) and 42 inches (110 cm), according to your preference and building codes. Many homeowners like to leave a couple of inches open below the bottom of the railing. To compensate for this, set the railing height mark slightly higher than the height of the railing itself. For instance, if you want a railing that is about 36 inches (91 cm) high, make marks on the posts at 40 inches (100 cm). That will leave enough room for the balusters, the top and bottom of the rail, and a couple inches open at the bottom. If you didn’t install the posts yourself, you’ll need to know the exact distance between them so that you can cut the railing pieces to size. You’ll need a helper for this.  Ask your helper to hold one end of the tape measure in place against the center of a post. Stretch the tape measure tightly across to the center of the next post and make a mark. Record the distance between the posts. Check the distance where you want the top and bottom rails to sit. If your posts are straight, the distance should be the same. If they're not, change the length of the rails to match the actual distance. Take a trip down to the lumber supply store. You’ll need to get several pieces pre-cut or cut them to size yourself. You can also ask the supply store to cut it to size for you.  Cut 1x3 or 2x4 lumber into lengths equal to the distance between your deck posts. You’ll need two pieces for each length of railing (one for the bottom and another for the top). Get plenty of 2x2 balusters to use for the railing. You’ll want to space these no more than 4 inches (10 cm) apart. The length of the balusters should be approximately the height you want the railing to be. If they’re too long, cut them down. You’ll also need thin strips of wood. Get something that is about 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) by 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). Cut it into lengths equal to the distance between the deck posts. You’ll need one strip per section. If you want to apply a finish to your deck, such as a coat of polyurethane or paint, do this before assembly. Coat all of the pieces on all sides, and let them dry for about 24 hours. That way, the pieces will be more protected from weather conditions.  Make sure you've finished cutting, sanding and drilling everything before you apply a finish. Let the finish dry completely before assembly to avoid smudges.

What is a summary?
Mark the railing height on the posts. Measure the distance between the posts. Get balusters and wood for the handrail. Finish all of the wooden pieces.