NICL AO 2025 Descriptive Exam Pattern Explained: Marks, Time & Word Limit

Introduction

The NICL AO 2025 Descriptive English Paper is one of the most scoring yet often underestimated sections of the exam. Candidates who understand the pattern and practice accordingly can easily secure 25+ out of 30 marks.

Based on the actual NICL AO 2024 paper, we now have a clear picture of what to expect in 2025. In this post, Bank Whizz brings you a complete analysis of the exam structure, marking scheme, word limits, and section-wise expectations for the NICL AO 2025 Descriptive Paper.


📘 NICL AO 2025 Descriptive Paper: At a Glance

ComponentDetails
Total Questions3 (Essay, Precis, Comprehension)
Total Marks30
Time Duration30 Minutes
ModeOnline (Typing-Based Test)
LanguageEnglish
Typing Tool Provided?Yes, with word count and basic formatting tools

🔍 Section-Wise Breakdown

Let’s understand each component of the paper in detail:


✍️ 1. Essay Writing

ParticularsDetails
No. of Topics Given3 topics (choose 1)
Word Limit200 words
Marks10
Topic NatureInsurance, Financial Inclusion, Technology, Government Schemes

📌 Key Highlights:

  • Topics are mostly based on insurance and economic relevance.
  • Candidates are expected to follow a formal tone and structured format.
  • Time to be spent: 10 minutes (max)

🧠 Pro Tip:

Prepare a list of 20–30 expected topics in advance. Practice writing essays within 200 words using an introduction-body-conclusion format.


✂️ 2. Precis Writing

ParticularsDetails
Passage Length300–350 words approx.
Word Limit for Precis150 words
Marks10
Topic NatureInsurance industry, economy, governance

📌 Key Highlights:

  • Tests your ability to summarize content accurately.
  • Requires clear identification of main points and theme.
  • Writing should be neutral, using your own words, not copied phrases.
  • Word count is critical — 150 words only.
  • Time to be spent: 10 minutes

🧠 Pro Tip:

Always give your precis a relevant title, even if not explicitly asked. It reflects clarity of understanding and improves structure.


📖 3. Reading Comprehension

ParticularsDetails
Passage LengthAround 150 words
Question Count4 to 5 questions
Marks10
Question TypeDirect, inferential, vocabulary-based

📌 Key Highlights:

  • Passage usually related to corporate culture, organizational behavior, or insurance practices.
  • Answers must be accurate, relevant, and well-phrased.
  • Avoid writing lengthy explanations; stay within 1–2 lines per answer.
  • Time to be spent: 10 minutes

🧠 Pro Tip:

Practice answering comprehension questions from editorials and insurance articles, especially from IRDAI updates or business dailies.


⏰ Ideal Time Management Strategy (30 Minutes)

SectionIdeal Time Allocation
Essay10 minutes
Precis10 minutes
Comprehension10 minutes

⚠️ Caution:

Don’t exceed the suggested time per section. The exam interface won’t allow extra time or section-wise breaks.


📚 Scoring Criteria – What Examiners Look For

ParameterEssayPrecisComprehension
Clarity of Expression
Grammar and Sentence Flow
Adherence to Word Limit
Relevance and Accuracy
Logical Structure
Neutral/Professional Tone

🏆 Why Descriptive Paper Matters

  • It helps differentiate serious candidates from average ones.
  • Many candidates score poorly due to lack of practice and misjudgment of time or word limits.
  • A well-attempted descriptive paper can make up for a marginal objective score and ensure selection.

✍️ How Bank Whizz Helps You Prepare

At Bank Whizz, we provide:

  • Precis + Essay + Comprehension mock tests with evaluation
  • Real exam-like interface for typing practice
  • Model answers and personalized feedback
  • Top 30 essay and precis topics, curated by exam experts
  • Time-based practice sets and strategy sessions

🔚 Conclusion

Understanding the NICL AO 2025 Descriptive Exam Pattern is the first step toward success. With 30 marks at stake in just 30 minutes, your preparation must be precise, time-bound, and smart.

Whether it’s writing a 200-word essay, summarizing a passage in 150 words, or answering comprehension questions with accuracy—clarity, structure, and speed are your greatest tools.

Enroll in Bank Whizz’s Descriptive Course today and ensure you’re ready to score high where others struggle.