The SEBI Grade A 2025 Descriptive English paper carries a total of 100 marks, split across three sections: Essay (30 marks), Precis (30 marks), and Reading Comprehension (40 marks). While candidates often focus on essay and RC, Precis Writing is the hidden gem where smart preparation can help you easily score 20+ out of 30 marks.
In this guide, you will learn:
- What Precis Writing is
- SEBI’s expected format
- Key tips and techniques
- A sample Precis with word count
- Common errors to avoid
🧾 What is Precis Writing?
A precis (pronounced pray-see) is a concise summary of a given passage that:
- Retains the essential ideas
- Is written in your own words
- Is structured logically
- Avoids repetition, opinions, and exaggerations
In SEBI Grade A, you are typically given a passage of around 500–600 words, and expected to summarize it into 170 words (as per syllabus).
📋 Format of Precis Writing for SEBI Grade A 2025
✅ Word Limit
- Given Passage: ~500–600 words
- Your Precis: 170 words (±10%)
- Stick to 160–180 words to avoid penalty
✅ Structure
Your Precis should follow this format:
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | One line summary of the passage’s theme |
| Body | A single, compact paragraph presenting the core message of the passage |
| Word Count | Mention the final word count at the end of the precis |
✍️ Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a High-Scoring Precis
🔹 Step 1: Read the Passage Twice
- First, read for general understanding
- Second, underline key points, examples, and main arguments
🔹 Step 2: Identify the Central Idea
- Ask: What is the author trying to convey?
- This will help you create an effective title
🔹 Step 3: Make a Rough Outline
- List major points
- Eliminate unnecessary illustrations or repetitive info
🔹 Step 4: Write the Precis in Your Own Words
- Use formal, clear, and concise English
- Maintain logical flow (cause-effect, contrast, sequence)
🔹 Step 5: Count and Review
- Count words to stay within the limit
- Ensure you’ve included all major ideas
- Remove any minor examples or redundant expressions
🧠 Important Rules for SEBI Precis Writing
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| No opinions | Don’t add your views or critique the passage |
| Use third person | Always write in third person and past tense |
| Keep original meaning | Never distort the author’s message |
| Avoid copying sentences | Paraphrase in your own words |
| Don’t use abbreviations or slang | Keep it formal and professional |
🧠 Keywords That Help Structure a Good Precis
- Therefore
- However
- Consequently
- In contrast
- Moreover
- On the other hand
- As a result
- The author highlights / argues / discusses
Using these words helps create smooth transitions between ideas.
✒️ Sample Precis Writing for SEBI Grade A 2025
🔶 Original Passage Summary (Not Displayed Here in Full)
Let’s assume a 520-word passage was provided on the topic “Impact of Digital Banking on Financial Inclusion in India.”
The passage discusses:
- Growth of digital payment systems
- Government schemes like PMJDY, BHIM, UPI
- Benefits to the unbanked population
- Challenges such as digital illiteracy and internet connectivity
- Role of fintech firms in bridging the inclusion gap
🟢 Precis Title:
Digital Banking as a Catalyst for Financial Inclusion in India
🟢 Precis Answer:
The advent of digital banking in India has significantly accelerated financial inclusion by making banking services accessible to remote and underserved populations. Initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, UPI, and BHIM have enabled millions to engage in formal financial transactions without the need to visit physical bank branches. These platforms have simplified fund transfers, enabled subsidy delivery, and promoted savings habits among rural users. Fintech companies have also played a pivotal role in offering micro-credit, insurance, and mobile banking solutions to the low-income segment. However, challenges such as limited digital literacy, unreliable internet connectivity, and cyber-security threats persist, hindering the complete transformation. The passage emphasizes that while digital banking has bridged many gaps, continuous efforts in infrastructure, digital education, and policy reform are crucial to achieving full-scale financial inclusion in the country.
🟢 Word Count: 170 words
🎯 How This Precis Meets SEBI’s Evaluation Criteria
| Evaluation Parameter | Achieved? |
|---|---|
| Covers all major ideas | ✅ |
| Clear structure and flow | ✅ |
| Within word limit (170) | ✅ |
| Written in own words | ✅ |
| Formal tone and style | ✅ |
| Title reflects core theme | ✅ |
This is a model precis that balances accuracy, conciseness, and coherence—exactly what SEBI examiners look for.
🔍 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Precis Writing
| Mistake | Why It’s Harmful |
|---|---|
| Copy-pasting phrases from passage | Reduces originality, lowers marks |
| Exceeding or falling short of word limit | Penalty for poor word control |
| Including irrelevant examples | Shows lack of summarizing skill |
| Giving personal opinions or suggestions | Precis is not an opinion piece |
| Unclear or generic title | Lowers first impression with the examiner |
📝 Practice Exercises for SEBI Grade A Precis
To master precis writing, practice with passages from:
- The Hindu editorials
- Economic Times opinion columns
- SEBI circulars (simplified for practice)
Practice Prompt 1:
Passage on the role of SEBI in investor protection.
Task: Write a precis in 170 words.
Practice Prompt 2:
Passage discussing the global shift to ESG investing.
Task: Precis + title within word limit.
📚 Books & Resources to Prepare Precis Writing
- Bank Whizz SEBI Descriptive Course – Includes live evaluation, sample precis, model answers
- Wren & Martin English Grammar – For sentence structure and conciseness
- SEBI Reports and Guidelines – Real material for practice
💡 Final Tips to Score 25+ in SEBI Precis
- Stick to the format: Title + Single Paragraph + Word Count
- Focus on clarity: Keep language simple and ideas coherent
- Cover the essence: Don’t miss any major argument
- Revise: Always proofread for grammar and flow
- Practice with real content: The more you read economic and regulatory material, the better your summarizing will get
🏁 Conclusion
Precis writing is both an art and a skill. For SEBI Grade A 2025, it’s your opportunity to stand out by showing that you can think, summarize, and present efficiently. With a clear format, strong vocabulary, and continuous practice, scoring 25+ out of 30 is absolutely achievable.
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