Precis writing is an essential skill for SEBI Grade A 2025 Descriptive English Paper, requiring candidates to summarize a passage concisely while retaining its core message. However, many aspirants lose marks due to avoidable mistakes. This guide outlines the most common mistakes in precis writing and provides practical strategies to avoid them, ensuring a high score in the exam.
Understanding Precis Writing
A precis is a concise summary of a passage that conveys the essential points without unnecessary details. A well-written precis should be:
- One-third the length of the original passage.
- Clear, coherent, and concise.
- Free from personal opinions and redundant details.
- Written in the candidate’s own words.
Common Mistakes in Precis Writing and How to Avoid Them
1. Writing a Summary Instead of a Precis
Mistake: Many candidates end up writing a general summary rather than a structured, well-condensed precis.
Solution: A precis should follow a structured format:
- Title: Reflects the main theme of the passage.
- Introduction: A concise statement of the central idea.
- Body: Key arguments and supporting details.
- Conclusion: A final restatement of the essence of the passage.
2. Exceeding the Word Limit
Mistake: Writing a precis that is too long or too short can lead to mark deductions.
Solution: Stick to the required 170-word limit in SEBI Grade A. Practice condensing information effectively while ensuring clarity.
3. Copying Sentences from the Passage
Mistake: Candidates often copy sentences verbatim, reducing originality and demonstrating weak comprehension skills.
Solution: Rewrite in your own words, ensuring the original meaning is intact. Use synonyms and restructure sentences without altering the intent.
4. Including Personal Opinions or Interpretations
Mistake: Adding personal views or assumptions that are not present in the passage.
Solution: Precis writing is objective—summarize the passage as it is without inserting personal analysis or new information.
5. Ignoring the Author’s Tone
Mistake: Changing the tone of the passage, making it more opinionated or informal.
Solution: Maintain the author’s intended tone—whether neutral, analytical, or persuasive. Do not alter the sentiment.
6. Lack of Coherence and Logical Flow
Mistake: Writing disjointed sentences that fail to connect ideas smoothly.
Solution: Use transition words like thus, therefore, however, consequently to maintain coherence and logical progression.
7. Using Complex Vocabulary and Unnecessary Jargon
Mistake: Trying to sound impressive by using overly complicated words.
Solution: Use simple, precise language. The goal is clarity, not complexity.
8. Not Proofreading Before Submission
Mistake: Many candidates submit their precis without checking for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, or missing key points.
Solution: Reserve 5 minutes for proofreading. Check for grammar, logical flow, and accuracy.
Sample Precis Writing Exercise
Original Passage (Example):
With increasing urbanization, traffic congestion has become a major issue in metropolitan areas. The rise in private vehicle ownership and inadequate public transport systems have worsened the situation. Governments worldwide are implementing solutions like carpooling, congestion charges, and improving public transportation. However, long-term success requires sustainable urban planning and behavioral change among commuters.
Precis (Sample Answer):
Traffic congestion in cities is worsening due to rising private vehicle use and inadequate public transport. Governments are addressing this through carpooling, congestion charges, and transport improvements. However, sustainable urban planning and commuter behavior change are essential for lasting solutions.
Final Thoughts
Mastering precis writing for SEBI Grade A 2025 requires practice, precision, and structured writing. By avoiding common mistakes, following a logical format, and practicing regularly, candidates can significantly improve their scores.
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