Here’s a comprehensive analysis of the Descriptive English section for the IFSCA Grade A Phase 2 Exam (Mains) held on October 13, 2024. This analysis provides insight into each component, covering the difficulty level, word limits, and specific topics asked.
Overview of the Descriptive English Section
The Descriptive English section in Paper 1 of the IFSCA Grade A Phase 2 Exam tested candidates’ writing and comprehension skills across three main tasks: Essay Writing, Precis Writing, and Reading Comprehension. Each task was designed to gauge candidates’ ability to express ideas clearly, structure their thoughts effectively, and showcase a balanced perspective on relevant issues. The overall difficulty level of this section was rated as Moderate.
1. Essay Writing: Analysis and Topics
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Word Limit: 270 words
The Essay Writing section required candidates to compose a 270-word essay on one of the provided topics. The topics were both relevant and thought-provoking, covering a range of contemporary issues that demand a well-rounded approach. The essays required a balance between critical analysis and structured arguments. Here are the topics presented in the exam:
- Content Regulation in Streaming Channels: Candidates were asked to discuss whether the government should prepare rules to regulate content on streaming platforms. This topic required a balanced approach, examining both the potential benefits (such as protecting public morality and children) and challenges (such as freedom of expression and censorship).
- Changing Buying Behaviour of Indian Customers: This topic invited candidates to reflect on the transformation in Indian consumers’ purchasing habits, focusing on both positive aspects (such as increasing awareness and variety of choices) and negatives (such as impulsive buying and increased consumerism).
- Role of Family Dynamics in Mental Well-being: This essay topic focused on the influence of family on mental health across generations. Candidates needed to explore how traditional family structures contribute to mental health support, as well as the pressures and expectations that can impact individuals within the family unit.
Each of these topics required candidates to construct logical arguments while staying concise, making it a test of both their writing ability and time management skills.
2. Precis Writing: Key Points
Difficulty Level: Moderate
The Precis Writing section required candidates to condense a given passage while retaining its core ideas. This task assessed their ability to identify the main points, avoid unnecessary details, and present information in a clear, concise manner. A good precis demonstrates both reading comprehension and summarization skills. Since the difficulty level was moderate, candidates with strong reading and analytical skills could perform well, though time management remained essential due to the need for precision and brevity.
3. Reading Comprehension: Insights
Difficulty Level: Moderate
The Reading Comprehension section featured a passage followed by questions aimed at evaluating the candidate’s understanding of key details and the passage’s central message. Candidates were expected to extract relevant information, interpret ideas, and analyze the author’s intent. The moderate difficulty level suggests that the passage and questions were fair but required close reading to accurately answer, testing candidates’ ability to focus and comprehend nuanced information.
Overall Difficulty and Strategy for Preparation
The overall difficulty level of the Descriptive English section in the IFSCA Grade A Phase 2 Exam was Moderate. Candidates preparing for future exams should focus on the following areas:
- Essay Practice: Focus on structuring essays within limited word counts. Practice writing on current affairs and general awareness topics, aiming to present a balanced perspective within 250-300 words.
- Precis Skills: Develop the ability to summarize texts concisely without omitting essential points. Regularly practice precis writing on editorials or complex articles to strengthen your summarization skills.
- Comprehension Drills: Enhance your reading comprehension by reading a variety of texts, such as editorials, opinion pieces, and analytical articles. Practice answering inferential and direct questions to improve your ability to comprehend and analyze.
Final Remarks
The Descriptive English section in the IFSCA Grade A Phase 2 exam was designed to test a candidate’s analytical and written communication skills, essential for a regulatory role in the financial sector. By regularly practicing writing tasks under timed conditions, future candidates can build both speed and precision, which are vital for scoring well in this section.