The IRDAI Grade A Phase II Descriptive English paper is often the deciding factor in final selection. Candidates may prepare well for the objective phase, but a single weak descriptive attempt can cost them a shortlist. Interestingly, it’s not always a lack of knowledge that leads to low marks — it’s the avoidable mistakes that hurt the score.
In this article, we’ll explore the 5 most common mistakes aspirants make in IRDAI Grade A Descriptive English and, more importantly, how you can avoid them to secure a top score in 2025.
1. Poor Time Management
The Mistake:
Many aspirants spend too much time on essay writing and rush through precis, reading comprehension, or letter writing. This leads to incomplete answers or shallow responses in the last few questions.
How to Avoid:
- Plan Your Approach: Before starting, allocate time section-wise — e.g., Essay (20 min), Precis (10 min), RC (10 min), Letter (10 min), Statement Expansion (6-8 min).
- Use a Timer in Practice: Simulate exam conditions and get used to finishing each section within the allocated time.
- Don’t Get Stuck: If you can’t think of points for an essay immediately, move to another section and return later.
Pro Tip: Keep 2-3 minutes at the end for revision. Even a quick spell check can save valuable marks.
2. Ignoring Structure & Format
The Mistake:
Candidates often write essays without proper paragraphs, skip subject lines in letters, or use casual language in formal communication. Such answers lose professionalism and marks.
How to Avoid:
- Follow a Clear Structure:
- Essay: Introduction → Body → Conclusion
- Letter/Email: Date → Receiver Details → Subject → Salutation → 3-Paragraph Body → Closing → Signature
- Precis: Title → Single cohesive paragraph
- Use Connectors: Words like however, therefore, in addition improve flow.
- Stay Formal: Avoid contractions (don’t, won’t), slang, or chatty tone.
Pro Tip: Memorize letter/email format before exam day so you don’t waste time recalling it in the paper.
3. Writing Too Much or Too Little
The Mistake:
Some candidates write excessively long essays or precis that exceed word limits, while others write too briefly, leaving key points out. Both lead to deduction of marks.
How to Avoid:
- Stick to Word Limits:
- Essay: 300–500 words (as specified)
- Precis: One-third of original passage
- Statement Expansion: 80–120 words
- Practice Condensation: Learn to eliminate redundant words.
- Prioritize Points: Cover main ideas first; add examples if time permits.
Pro Tip: Count words approximately every 4–5 lines to stay on track.
4. Lack of Content Depth & Examples
The Mistake:
An essay or letter filled with generic statements (“Insurance is good for people”) without data, examples, or sector relevance appears weak and earns low marks.
How to Avoid:
- Read Current Affairs: Stay updated on IRDAI circulars, Bima Sugam, insurance penetration statistics, and financial inclusion initiatives.
- Use Relevant Data: Example – Insurance penetration in India is around 4.2% of GDP, compared to the global average of 7%.
- Give Real-World Examples: Cite government schemes (PMJJBY, PMSBY), IRDAI’s “Insurance for All by 2047” mission, or digital initiatives.
Pro Tip: Maintain a personal notebook or digital file of facts and examples so you can revise them before the exam.
5. Neglecting Grammar, Spelling & Proofreading
The Mistake:
Even well-structured answers lose marks if riddled with grammar errors, spelling mistakes, or awkward sentences.
How to Avoid:
- Practice Writing Regularly: Focus on subject-verb agreement, punctuation, and sentence clarity.
- Read Your Answer Once: Dedicate last 2–3 minutes to correct typos, missing words, and spelling errors.
- Avoid Complex Sentences: Use short, crisp sentences for clarity.
Pro Tip: Reading aloud softly (or in your head) during revision helps catch awkward phrasing.
Quick Revision Checklist Before Submission
- ✅ Is each section attempted?
- ✅ Is word limit followed?
- ✅ Are paragraphs well-structured?
- ✅ Are grammar and spellings correct?
- ✅ Is tone formal and professional?
Weekly Practice Plan to Overcome These Mistakes
| Day | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | Essay writing on insurance/finance topic | 20 mins |
| Tue | Precis + RC back-to-back under timer | 25 mins |
| Wed | Business letter/email practice | 15 mins |
| Thu | Statement expansion + grammar drills | 20 mins |
| Fri | Full mock descriptive paper | 60 mins |
| Sat | Self-review & rewrite weak answers | 30 mins |
| Sun | Vocabulary & connectors practice | 20 mins |
Final Words
The IRDAI Grade A Descriptive English paper is not about being a literary genius — it’s about clear, professional, and time-efficient communication. By avoiding these five common mistakes and following a disciplined practice plan, you can significantly boost your score and stand out from the competition.
Remember: Write Smart, Write Precise, and Review Before You Submit.