Introduction
Scoring 80+ marks out of 100 in the RBI Grade B 2025 Descriptive English paper is very much achievable with a clear, disciplined, and structured approach. This section is a game-changer in the final merit list — while many aspirants focus heavily on Phase 1 and Objective sections of Phase 2, the Descriptive English paper is often underestimated.
This guide is your step-by-step strategy to mastering this high-value paper and emerging in the top percentile of aspirants.
📝 Understanding the Exam Structure
The Descriptive English paper tests your command over written English through three core areas:
| Component | Marks | Word Limit | Time Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 40 | 600 words | 35–40 minutes |
| Precis Writing | 30 | 140 words | 20–25 minutes |
| Reading Comprehension | 30 | 5 questions | 20–25 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
To score 80+, you must aim for:
- 32+ in Essay
- 25+ in Precis
- 23+ in RC
✍️ Section 1: Essay Writing (600 Words – 40 Marks)
🎯 Target Score: 32–35
✅ How to Prepare:
- Master the Format:
- Introduction (50–80 words): Define the topic + provide context.
- Body (400–450 words): Divide into 2–3 subheadings. Use logical arguments, real-world examples, and data where relevant.
- Conclusion (80–100 words): Summarize and end with a forward-looking thought.
- Practice Topical Essays:
- Make a list of 30 probable topics: banking reforms, climate change, digital economy, AI in governance, etc.
- Practice writing 1–2 essays every week.
- Stick to 600 words strictly.
- Add Value with:
- Recent examples (e.g., RBI’s digital rupee, ESG investing)
- Reports/Stats (e.g., World Bank, UNDP, NITI Aayog)
- Balanced tone (Avoid bias or extreme views)
- Language & Style:
- Use simple, formal, and impactful English.
- Avoid jargon unless explained.
- Use linkers (however, moreover, on the other hand) to improve flow.
❌ What to Avoid:
- Writing too short (<500 words) or exceeding word limit
- Informal or chatty tone
- Repetition of ideas
✂️ Section 2: Precis Writing (140 Words – 30 Marks)
🎯 Target Score: 25–27
✅ How to Prepare:
- Understand the Art of Condensation:
- Your precis must be 1/3rd the length of the original.
- It should be a standalone summary without changing the tone or adding opinions.
- Steps to Follow:
- Read the passage 2–3 times.
- Identify the main idea and supporting arguments.
- Create a rough note in bullet points.
- Write in your own words using third person, active voice.
- Practice Approach:
- Use editorials or opinion articles as practice material.
- Maintain a word count discipline.
- Get your work reviewed or compare with model precis.
- Skills Required:
- Comprehension
- Vocabulary simplification
- Logical sequencing
🛠️ Sample Start:
Original Passage: 420 words on Artificial Intelligence replacing CEOs
Precis Opening Line: “The passage discusses the potential and limitations of AI in replacing CEOs by analyzing decision-making roles, emotional intelligence, and ethical judgments.”
📖 Section 3: Reading Comprehension (30 Marks – 5 Questions)
🎯 Target Score: 23–25
✅ How to Prepare:
- Focus on Themes:
- Business, economics, governance, management, technology, ethics.
- Types of Questions Asked:
- Fact-based
- Inference-based
- Vocabulary (meaning in context)
- Author’s tone or purpose
- Practice Sources:
- GMAT-level RC passages (for complexity)
- Editorials from The Hindu, LiveMint, Indian Express
- RBI Speeches & Reports
- Smart Reading Strategy:
- Read the questions first to know what to focus on.
- Highlight/underline keywords in passage (if permitted).
- Eliminate wrong options logically.
- Time Target:
~4 minutes reading the passage
~3–4 minutes answering questions
⚠️ Common Errors:
- Rushing through the passage
- Misinterpreting tone or inference
- Overthinking vocabulary-based questions
⏱️ Time Management – Critical for 80+ Score
| Task | Time to Spend |
|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 35–40 mins |
| Precis Writing | 20–25 mins |
| Reading Comprehension | 20–25 mins |
Pro Tip:
Start with the section you’re most confident in. Many aspirants begin with Precis, then Essay, and end with RC — you can adjust as per your strength.
🧠 Typing Practice – Don’t Skip!
Since the paper is computer-based, your typing speed can directly affect how many words you can write and how well you format the essay and precis.
Tips:
- Practice on an online notepad or Word Processor without spell-check.
- Type at least 30–35 words per minute comfortably.
- Avoid typos, spacing errors, and formatting issues.
📚 Top Resources to Use
- Bank Whizz Essay & Precis Mocks
- Descriptive English by SP Bakshi & Richa Sharma
- RBI Annual Reports / Bulletins
- Press Information Bureau (PIB)
- Google Scholar for real data/studies
📌 30-Day Smart Practice Plan
| Week | Focus Area | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Essay + RC | 2 essays + 4 RCs |
| 2 | Precis + RC | 4 precis + 4 RCs |
| 3 | Full-Length Mocks | 2 full mocks + topic revision |
| 4 | Review + Final Touch | Evaluate previous attempts + polish |
✅ What High Scorers Do Differently
- Write to communicate, not to impress.
- Stick to the format — structure matters more than style.
- Use relevant examples and avoid fluff.
- Be precise, be sharp, be clear.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Scoring 80+ in the RBI Grade B 2025 Descriptive English paper is about strategy, not just skill. With planned preparation, regular practice, and smart execution, you can turn this section into your strength, giving you a solid edge in final selection.
📌 Start preparing now, stay consistent, and focus on quality writing.
