Precis writing is a vital part of the SEBI Grade A 2025 Descriptive English Paper. It assesses a candidate’s ability to summarize a passage concisely while maintaining clarity, coherence, and accuracy. A well-structured precis demonstrates strong comprehension and analytical skills, making it essential for scoring high in the exam. This guide covers the format, structure, and scoring tips to help you master precis writing.
Understanding Precis Writing
A precis is a concise summary of a given passage that retains essential points while eliminating unnecessary details. The key features of a good precis include:
- Brevity: Should be one-third of the original passage length.
- Clarity: Clearly convey the author’s intent without distortion.
- Coherence: Maintain logical flow and structure.
- Objectivity: Exclude personal opinions or interpretations.
Format of a Precis
A well-structured precis follows a clear format, which includes:
- Title: Reflects the main theme of the passage.
- Introduction: A single sentence that introduces the main idea.
- Body: A concise summary of the passage’s key arguments.
- Conclusion: A final statement summarizing the essence of the passage.
Step-by-Step Structure for Writing a Precis
1. Read the Passage Carefully
- Understand the central theme and the author’s viewpoint.
- Highlight key points and eliminate redundant details.
2. Identify the Main Idea
- The precis should focus on the core message and avoid any digressions.
- Use short and simple sentences while maintaining the essence of the passage.
3. Rewrite in Your Own Words
- Avoid copying sentences directly from the passage.
- Use synonyms and restructured sentences to maintain originality.
4. Maintain a Logical Flow
- Arrange ideas in a coherent and sequential manner.
- Use connectors like ‘therefore’, ‘hence’, ‘thus’, and ‘consequently’ for better readability.
5. Ensure Conciseness and Clarity
- Stick to the word limit (170 words for SEBI Grade A).
- Eliminate repetitions, adjectives, and unnecessary details.
6. Proofread and Edit
- Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and clarity.
- Ensure that the precis captures all key points effectively.
Scoring Tips for Precis Writing
- Follow the one-third rule: Keep the precis concise without missing key points.
- Use formal and precise language: Avoid flowery expressions and subjective opinions.
- Stick to the author’s tone: Do not alter the meaning or intent of the passage.
- Revise before submitting: Small corrections can enhance clarity and coherence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Writing a summary instead of a precis – A precis should be a structured condensation of the passage.
- Exceeding the word limit – Be precise and avoid unnecessary elaboration.
- Including personal opinions – Precis writing must be objective.
- Lack of coherence – The summary should follow a logical sequence.
- Overlooking important points – Ensure that all key arguments are included.
Sample Precis Writing Exercise
Original Passage (Example):
Technology has significantly transformed banking, making financial transactions easier and more efficient. The introduction of mobile banking, UPI, and online payment systems has improved accessibility for customers, especially in rural areas. However, this rapid digitization also raises concerns regarding cybersecurity and data privacy. Financial institutions must adopt advanced security measures to safeguard user data and ensure trust in the digital economy.
Precis (Sample Answer):
Banking has evolved with technology, enhancing financial accessibility through mobile banking and UPI. While digital transactions are convenient, they pose cybersecurity risks, necessitating robust security measures to maintain trust.
Final Thoughts
Mastering precis writing for SEBI Grade A 2025 requires consistent practice and a structured approach. By following this guide and avoiding common mistakes, candidates can improve their precis writing skills and enhance their exam performance. Focus on clarity, conciseness, and coherence to craft an effective precis.
For expert guidance, mock tests, and practice exercises, stay connected with Bank Whizz!