The Descriptive English Paper in SEBI Grade A 2025 (Phase II) tests not only your writing skills but also your ability to organize thoughts under strict time pressure.
You have one hour (60 minutes) to attempt three sections:
- Essay – 30 Marks (400 Words)
- Precis – 30 Marks (120 Words)
- Comprehension – 40 Marks (5 Descriptive Questions)
A clear and realistic time management strategy can make the difference between a 50-mark average and a 70+ performance.
📝 Note on Word Limit and Marks Distribution (SEBI Grade A – Descriptive English)
As per SEBI’s official hand-out, the Descriptive English paper in Phase II carries 100 marks (Essay – 30 marks, Precis – 30 marks, Comprehension – 40 marks) with a duration of 60 minutes. The essay is officially prescribed to be around 400 words.
However, in the recent SEBI Grade A exams (2022–2024), the actual on-screen instruction has required essays of about 250 – 270 words.
Therefore, candidates are advised to:
- Practice essays in two modes:
- Exam Mode: 250 – 270 words (reflecting the latest trend).
- Practice Mode: 400 words (for skill building and expressive writing).
- Maintain a clear structure—Introduction → Body → Conclusion—with coherence and balanced analysis within the given limit.
(Bank Whizz mocks follow the updated 250–270 word guideline to simulate the actual SEBI interface.)
🕓 I. Ideal Time Distribution (60 Minutes Total)
| Section | Marks | Recommended Time | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essay | 30 | 25 minutes | Brainstorm → Outline → Write → Review |
| Precis | 30 | 15 minutes | Read → Identify main idea → Write concise version |
| Comprehension | 40 | 20 minutes | Read passage → Answer 5 descriptive Qs |
🧠 II. Step-by-Step Breakdown
1️⃣ Essay Writing (0 – 25 Minutes)
The essay is your first impression — it sets the tone for evaluators.
0 – 5 Minutes → Planning & Outline
- Read all given essay options carefully.
- Pick the one you know best (facts, examples, clarity).
- Draft a quick structure: Introduction → 2 Body Paragraphs → Conclusion.
- List 3–4 keywords or data points to include.
5 – 23 Minutes → Writing the Essay
- Keep paragraphs short (4–5 lines each).
- Use linking words: Moreover, However, Therefore, In addition.
- Maintain a balanced tone — neither too academic nor too casual.
23 – 25 Minutes → Final Review
- Check for grammar, spelling, and word count (~400 words).
- Ensure each paragraph logically connects to the topic.
2️⃣ Precis Writing (25 – 40 Minutes)
Precis tests your comprehension and condensation ability.
25 – 30 Minutes → Reading & Understanding
- Read the passage twice.
- Highlight main ideas and supporting arguments.
- Ignore examples, quotations, or data not central to meaning.
30 – 38 Minutes → Writing the Precis
- Rewrite the passage in your own words, one-third its original length.
- Maintain logical sequence and tone of the author.
- Avoid adding opinions or interpretations.
38 – 40 Minutes → Quick Check
- Count words (target ~120).
- Write a concise title that captures the essence.
3️⃣ Comprehension (40 – 60 Minutes)
Comprehension can fetch easy marks if you manage time wisely.
40 – 45 Minutes → First Reading
- Read the passage quickly to grasp the theme.
- Note transition words and tone (analytical, descriptive, persuasive).
45 – 57 Minutes → Answering Questions
- There are usually 5 descriptive questions (8 marks each).
- Use complete sentences (2–4 lines per answer).
- Avoid repetition and direct copying.
- Cite examples or phrases from the passage when appropriate.
57 – 60 Minutes → Final Scan
- Verify that all answers are complete.
- Correct any grammar or spelling errors.
- Submit confidently — accuracy matters more than length.
🧩 III. Why This Order Works
✅ Essay First – You’re mentally fresh and creative; best time to structure thoughts.
✅ Precis Next – Mid-exam, when concentration is moderate and logical.
✅ Comprehension Last – Reading-based, less creative load, helps wind down calmly.
🪶 IV. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Spending too long (30+ min) on the essay and rushing the rest.
- Copy-pasting lines from passages in precis or comprehension.
- Ignoring word limits — penalties apply for overshooting.
- Poor handwriting and paragraphing in offline mode (if applicable).
- Writing without headings or logical breaks.
⚙️ V. Smart Practice Plan (Bank Whizz Strategy)
| Week | Focus Area | Practice Task |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Essay | Write 2 essays under 25 min each |
| Week 2 | Precis | Practice 3 passages within 15 min each |
| Week 3 | Comprehension | Attempt 2 sets (5 Qs each) in 20 min |
| Week 4 | Full Test | Simulate 60-min exam under timer |
💡 Tip: Use Bank Whizz’s “Timed Mock Practice” interface (or set your own countdown) to build speed + accuracy.
📈 VI. Mark Maximization Formula
| Component | Technique | Bonus Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Essay | Facts + Structure + Flow | Begin with a quote or data point |
| Precis | Clarity + Brevity + Coherence | Write in 3 short paragraphs |
| Comprehension | Accuracy + Context | Reference keywords from passage |
Aim for:
✅ Essay – 22+ marks ✅ Precis – 20+ marks ✅ Comprehension – 28+ marks → Total 70 + Marks
🏁 Final Words
Time management is not just about speed — it’s about sequencing, focus, and balance.
A 60-minute descriptive test is like a mini marathon — start strong, stay steady, finish clean.
At Bank Whizz, we recommend following this 25-15-20 plan consistently during practice.
By exam day, you’ll be writing not in panic but in rhythm — and that’s how toppers score 70 + in SEBI Grade A Descriptive Paper.