The IRDAI Grade A Phase II Descriptive English paper is one of the most decisive parts of the selection process. While the objective paper checks conceptual knowledge, the descriptive paper evaluates communication skills, clarity of thought, and ability to present ideas professionally — qualities that are essential for a regulatory officer’s role.
If you are serious about cracking IRDAI Grade A 2025, you need a comprehensive strategy for this section. This guide walks you through the paper pattern, section-wise approach, preparation tips, and practice plans to help you score high with confidence.
Why Descriptive English Matters
- Weightage in Final Selection: A good descriptive score can push your overall merit ranking higher, even if your objective score is average.
- Professional Relevance: IRDAI officers draft circulars, reports, and correspondences. The descriptive paper tests whether you can communicate clearly in writing.
- Differentiator: Most aspirants focus heavily on objective papers — strong writing skills can give you a competitive edge.
Paper Pattern Overview
Although the exact pattern may vary slightly, the typical IRDAI Grade A Descriptive English paper consists of:
| Section | Marks | Word Limit | Skills Tested |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 30 | ~500 words | Content depth, structure, flow |
| Precis Writing | 20 | 1/3rd of passage | Comprehension, summarization |
| Reading Comprehension | 20 | Short answers | Understanding, inference |
| Letter / Business Correspondence | 20 | 150-200 words | Format, tone, professionalism |
| Statement Expansion | 10 | 80-120 words | Interpretation, expression |
Total: 100 marks | Duration: 60–90 minutes (as per official notification)
Section-Wise Strategy
1. Essay Writing
The essay is the most weight-bearing part of the paper.
Approach:
- Spend 3–4 minutes brainstorming ideas before writing.
- Follow the 3-part structure:
- Introduction: Set the context and define key terms.
- Body: Present 3–4 well-structured arguments with examples.
- Conclusion: Summarize and provide a forward-looking perspective.
- Use formal language and maintain word economy — avoid unnecessary repetition.
Preparation Tips:
- Maintain a notebook of important topics like IRDAI’s “Insurance for All by 2047,” micro-insurance, Bima Sugam, climate risk insurance, digital transformation, financial inclusion.
- Quote data or schemes from IRDAI reports or Economic Survey for authenticity.
2. Precis Writing
Precis is a test of comprehension and summarization.
Approach:
- Read passage twice — first for gist, second for key points.
- Note down important arguments, examples, and conclusion.
- Rewrite in one-third length, using your own words.
- Give a suitable title that captures the central idea.
Avoid: Copying sentences verbatim, adding opinions, writing too short or too long.
3. Reading Comprehension
RC is straightforward but can be time-consuming if you overread.
Approach:
- Skim passage first for overall theme.
- Read questions before second reading — helps focus on relevant lines.
- Answer in short, precise sentences.
- For inference-based questions, provide logical reasoning.
4. Business Correspondence
Letters, emails, or memos carry easy marks if you know the format.
Approach:
- Learn standard letter/email format by heart.
- Write in three paragraphs: Purpose, Details, Conclusion/Request.
- Keep tone professional — no slang or contractions.
- Proofread for spelling and punctuation before submission.
5. Statement Expansion
This section tests your ability to interpret and elaborate a short statement.
Approach:
- Understand meaning and central idea.
- Write 80–120 words explaining, supporting with an example, and concluding with a moral/lesson.
Time Management Strategy
Suggested allocation for a 60-minute paper:
| Section | Suggested Time |
|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 20 minutes |
| Precis Writing | 10–12 minutes |
| Reading Comprehension | 10–12 minutes |
| Business Correspondence | 10 minutes |
| Statement Expansion | 6–8 minutes |
| Revision | 2–3 minutes |
Pro Tip: Finish essay + precis within first 30 minutes to avoid last-minute rush.
Improving Grammar & Vocabulary
- Daily Reading: Editorials from The Hindu or Business Line help learn sentence structure.
- Grammar Practice: Focus on subject-verb agreement, tenses, prepositions.
- Vocabulary Building: Maintain a list of formal connectors (however, therefore, moreover). Use them in essays and letters to improve flow.
Practice Plan for IRDAI Grade A Descriptive English
| Day | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | Essay writing practice (500 words) | 20 mins |
| Tue | Precis + RC back-to-back | 25 mins |
| Wed | Letter writing + Statement expansion | 20 mins |
| Thu | Grammar and vocabulary drill | 20 mins |
| Fri | Full descriptive mock | 60 mins |
| Sat | Self-review and rewrite weak sections | 30 mins |
| Sun | Read IRDAI reports / current affairs | 30 mins |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overshooting word limit in essay or precis
- Skipping title in precis
- Using casual language in formal correspondence
- Spending too long on first question and leaving others incomplete
- Grammar & spelling errors that reduce professionalism
Quick Checklist Before Submission
- ✅ Word limit followed?
- ✅ Proper structure (intro-body-conclusion)?
- ✅ No spelling/grammar errors?
- ✅ Formal tone maintained?
- ✅ Each section attempted?
Final Words
The Descriptive English paper is not a hurdle — it is an opportunity to showcase your clarity, professionalism, and communication skills. By following a section-wise strategy, practicing regularly under timed conditions, and focusing on grammar and vocabulary, you can turn this paper into a scoring advantage.
Remember: Structured Thinking + Time Discipline + Practice = High Score.