Precis writing is a crucial component of the SIDBI Grade A descriptive English section, testing your ability to condense and summarize information effectively. A strong precis demonstrates your comprehension, clarity, and language skills, which are essential for a SIDBI officer. This guide provides you with key techniques, sample precis, and practice exercises to help you achieve top marks.
What is Precis Writing?
Precis writing involves summarizing a passage to about one-third of its original length while retaining its main points and structure. The goal is to capture the passage’s essence without losing critical information. In SIDBI Grade A, the precis section evaluates your ability to understand, condense, and communicate effectively—a valuable skill in any professional role.
Key Techniques for SIDBI Grade A Precis Writing
1. Thoroughly Read the Passage to Identify the Main Idea
Technique:
After reading, jot down the main idea in a sentence. This exercise will help you stay focused when writing your summary.
2. Eliminate Redundant Information
While reading, filter out minor details, examples, and descriptions that don’t contribute to the passage’s core message. A good precis only includes essential points and avoids unnecessary information.
Technique:
Highlight or underline sentences that convey the main points. Avoid anything that doesn’t directly support the primary message.
3. Use Simple Language and Paraphrase
A high-scoring precis is written in clear, simple language. Paraphrasing the passage in your own words demonstrates your comprehension. Avoid directly copying sentences or phrases from the passage.
Technique:
Practice rewriting sentences in a simpler way. This skill will make it easier to express complex ideas concisely in your precis.
4. Maintain the Passage’s Tone and Structure
It’s important to retain the author’s tone—whether objective, persuasive, or descriptive—in your summary. Additionally, follow the passage’s logical flow, starting with the main idea, followed by supporting points, and ending with any conclusions.
Technique:
Note the passage’s tone and structure before writing. Ensure that your precis aligns with these elements to maintain coherence.
5. Keep it Concise and Stick to the Word Limit
A precis should be around one-third of the passage’s length. Staying concise ensures that you focus only on essential points without adding filler words or extra details.
Technique:
Practice summarizing passages within a set word limit. This will help you get comfortable with brevity and precision in your writing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in SIDBI Grade A Precis Writing
- Copying Phrases from the Passage: Paraphrase to show your understanding.
- Including Minor Details: Focus on key points only.
- Adding Personal Opinions: A precis should be objective, without personal insights.
- Ignoring the Author’s Tone: Retain the original tone and perspective.
- Exceeding the Word Limit: Keep your summary concise.
Sample Precis for SIDBI Grade A
Let’s look at a sample passage and precis to see these techniques in action:
Original Passage: “The rapid development of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, is transforming the global energy landscape. These energy sources offer sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, helping to mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, renewable energy comes with its challenges, such as high initial costs and reliance on weather conditions. Despite these issues, governments and industries worldwide are investing heavily in renewables to secure a cleaner and more sustainable future.”
Precis: Renewable energy sources like wind and solar are reshaping the global energy landscape by offering sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, aiding in climate change mitigation. Although they face challenges like high costs and weather dependency, investments are rising to support a sustainable future.
Practice Exercises for SIDBI Grade A Precis Writing
Practicing with a variety of topics can improve your summarization skills and help you get comfortable with different themes. Here are some sample topics to practice:
- The Role of Financial Inclusion in Economic Development
- Digital Transformation and Its Impact on Banking
- Climate Change and Its Effects on Global Economies
- Cybersecurity Challenges in the Financial Sector
- Microfinance and Its Contribution to Socio-Economic Growth
Practice Tip:
For each topic, set a timer and aim to summarize the passage in a set word limit. This will help you improve your speed and precision under exam conditions.
Conclusion
The SIDBI Grade A precis writing section requires clarity, conciseness, and a thorough understanding of summarization techniques. By following these key techniques, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to craft high-scoring precis in the exam.
Remember, precis writing isn’t just about reducing word count; it’s about capturing the passage’s essence in a way that’s easy to understand. With consistent practice and a focus on precision, you’ll be ready to tackle the descriptive English section and maximize your SIDBI Grade A score.