Introduction
The Descriptive English Paper in NABARD Grade A Phase 2 is designed to assess your writing skills, clarity of thought, and ability to express yourself on developmental and rural economy issues. Many aspirants focus heavily on the objective papers but forget that this 100-mark paper is qualifying-cum-merit, and its weight can significantly impact your final rank.
In this guide, we will cover:
- Complete syllabus and marking scheme
- Word limits for each section
- Step-by-step strategies for Essay, Precis, and Letter Writing
- Sample approach and common mistakes to avoid
NABARD Grade A 2025 – Descriptive English Syllabus Overview
| Component | Marks | Word Limit | No. of Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 40 | 500–520 Words | 1 out of 4 topics |
| Precis Writing | 30 | ~120 Words | 1 |
| Letter Writing | 30 | ~220 Words | 1 (Formal/Informal) |
Total: 100 Marks
Duration: 90 Minutes
Mode: Online, answers to be typed using keyboard
Section-Wise Preparation Strategy
1. Essay Writing (40 Marks | 520 Words)
Essay is the most weightage-carrying question and a real differentiator. It tests your knowledge of rural economy, finance, current affairs, and your ability to present arguments coherently.
Common Topics for NABARD Essay:
- Credit Facilities for Sustainable Agriculture
- Role of Rural Youth in Education & Entrepreneurship
- Fisheries and its Contribution to GDP
- Forestry and Sustainable Development
- Climate Change and Agriculture
- Financial Inclusion & Rural Development
Step-by-Step Strategy:
- Select the Topic Carefully (2 mins):
Choose the one you are most confident about and have enough content for. - Create a Rough Framework (5 mins):
Jot down main points under:- Introduction
- Body (2–3 paragraphs)
- Conclusion
- Structure Using ICE Formula:
- Introduction (70–80 words): Define topic, set context, add a fact/quote/statistic.
- Content (350–380 words): Discuss causes, challenges, initiatives, examples. Use subheadings or clear paragraph breaks.
- Ending (50–60 words): Summarize key points and give a positive, solution-oriented outlook.
- Language & Tone:
- Keep formal, policy-oriented tone.
- Use connectors (Furthermore, Therefore, However).
- Avoid casual/slang words.
- Proofreading (3 mins):
- Check grammar, spelling, and word count.
- Remove redundancy.
Target Score: 28–30 marks by writing a data-backed, well-structured essay.
2. Precis Writing (30 Marks | 120 Words)
Precis writing tests comprehension, condensation, and clarity. You must express the main idea of the passage in one-third of its length without changing its meaning.
Strategy:
- Read Passage Thoroughly (5 mins):
Underline key points, facts, and central theme. - Create a Rough Draft (5 mins):
- Note main arguments in sequence.
- Remove examples, adjectives, and redundant phrases.
- Write Final Precis (7–8 mins):
- Maintain logical flow.
- Keep within ±5% of word limit.
- Use simple, crisp language.
- Give a Suitable Title (Compulsory):
Title should capture the central theme of the passage.
Target Score: 21–23 marks with a well-structured, grammatically correct summary.
3. Letter Writing (30 Marks | 220 Words)
Letter writing tests your ability to communicate formally and persuasively.
Common Letter Topics:
- Letter to Municipal Office about road damage
- Complaint to a company regarding a defective product
- Letter to the editor about social issues
- Request letter for article publication
Structure:
- Salutation: “Sir/Madam” for formal letters
- Introduction (1st paragraph): State purpose of writing
- Body (2nd paragraph): Explain issue, provide facts, data if needed
- Conclusion (3rd paragraph): Request for action, express thanks
- Sign-Off: “Yours sincerely/faithfully” + Name
Tips:
- Maintain formal tone.
- Avoid grammar errors — especially in subject line & salutation.
- Stick to word limit (200–230 words).
Target Score: 21–23 marks for a well-formatted, polite, and solution-oriented letter.
Time Management Plan (90 Minutes)
| Section | Recommended Time |
|---|---|
| Letter Writing | 20 minutes |
| Precis Writing | 25 minutes |
| Essay Writing | 40 minutes |
| Final Review | 5 minutes |
This sequence ensures you finish scoring areas first and leave enough time for essay (the most scoring component).
Typing Practice & Speed Tips
- Practice typing at least 30–35 words per minute for comfort.
- Use online platforms (TypingClub, 10FastFingers).
- Practice writing one essay, one precis, and one letter every alternate day on keyboard.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Exceeding Word Limit: Penalties are applied for exceeding the range.
- Casual Tone in Formal Letter: Avoid slang or abbreviations (e.g., “pls,” “u”).
- Unstructured Essay: Always write in paragraphs with logical flow.
- Skipping Proofreading: Small grammar mistakes can cost you marks.
Final Tips for 70+ Score
- Build a Content Bank: Collect facts, schemes, and data related to agriculture, rural development, NABARD functions.
- Practice Weekly Mocks: Simulate exam environment with 90-min timer.
- Develop Vocabulary: Use professional words (credit flow, fiscal outlay, sustainable practices).
- Analyze & Improve: After every mock, check where you lost marks and fix those areas.
Conclusion
The NABARD Grade A Descriptive English paper is not difficult, but it rewards preparation, structure, and clarity. By mastering essay writing with relevant examples, summarizing passages crisply in precis, and drafting formal letters professionally, you can score 70+ marks easily and strengthen your final selection chances.
Consistency is key — practice regularly, review mistakes, and go into the exam with a calm, prepared mind.