Introduction
Good writing is not just about expressing ideas — it is about expressing them clearly, accurately, and professionally. The LIC AAO 2025 Descriptive English Paper evaluates your grammar and vocabulary silently but strictly. Even a well-structured answer can lose marks if it is filled with grammatical mistakes or repetitive, weak vocabulary.
This guide will help you strengthen your grammar foundation and expand your vocabulary so you can write polished, high-scoring emails, reports, and precis in the exam.
Section 1: Key Grammar Rules You Must Master
✅ 1. Subject-Verb Agreement
- Rule: Singular subject takes singular verb; plural subject takes plural verb.
- Example:
- Correct: The report is ready.
- Incorrect: The report are ready.
✅ 2. Tense Consistency
- Maintain the same tense throughout your writing unless a time shift is required.
- Example:
- Correct: The meeting was held yesterday and was attended by 50 employees.
- Incorrect: The meeting was held yesterday and is attended by 50 employees.
✅ 3. Active vs. Passive Voice
- Prefer active voice for clarity and conciseness.
- Example:
- Active: The branch organized a workshop.
- Passive: A workshop was organized by the branch. (acceptable but longer)
✅ 4. Proper Use of Articles
- A before consonant sounds, An before vowel sounds, The for specificity.
- Example: The report was submitted to the manager.
✅ 5. Punctuation & Capitalization
- Use commas for pauses, full stops to end sentences, and capital letters for proper nouns.
- Example: Dear Sir, (comma after salutation), Regards, (comma after closing word)
✅ 6. Avoid Redundancy
- Don’t use multiple words that mean the same thing.
- Example: Instead of each and every, simply write each.
Section 2: Vocabulary Booster for Descriptive English
A powerful vocabulary helps you write precise, impactful, and professional content.
📌 High-Utility Words for Email & Report Writing
| Category | Words to Use |
|---|---|
| Formal Openings | This is to inform you, Kindly note, Please be advised |
| Positive Tone | Appreciate, Delighted, Pleased, Honored |
| Problem-Solving | Recommend, Suggest, Resolve, Clarify |
| Conclusion | Therefore, Hence, Consequently, As a result |
| Formal Closings | Regards, Sincerely, Faithfully |
📌 Transition Words for Coherence
Use linking words to maintain smooth flow:
- Addition: Moreover, In addition, Furthermore
- Contrast: However, Nevertheless, On the other hand
- Cause-Effect: Because, Therefore, As a result
- Examples: For instance, Such as, Namely
📌 Vocabulary for Precis Writing
- Replace long phrases with single words:
- Made use of → Utilized
- In order to → To
- Has the ability to → Can
- Due to the fact that → Because
Section 3: Daily Grammar & Vocabulary Practice Plan
| Day | Task | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | Revise tenses & subject-verb agreement | 15 min |
| Tue | Practice punctuation & sentence connectors | 15 min |
| Wed | Learn 10 new formal words & use them in sentences | 20 min |
| Thu | Write a short email using new words | 15 min |
| Fri | Write precis using synonyms & transitions | 20 min |
| Sat | Attempt a full descriptive mock, focus on grammar accuracy | 30 min |
| Sun | Revise all mistakes, create flashcards of weak words | 30 min |
Section 4: Tools & Resources
- Grammar Practice: Wren & Martin (for quick reference), Grammarly (for practice feedback)
- Vocabulary Building:
- Read editorials from The Hindu or Economic Times daily
- Maintain a personal word journal with meaning + example
- Use flashcards for revision (Anki, Quizlet, or handwritten)
Common Grammar & Vocabulary Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using informal or casual words (gonna, wanna, guys)
❌ Mixing tenses in one paragraph
❌ Overusing jargon or complicated words
❌ Forgetting articles (a, an, the)
❌ Repeating same word multiple times — use synonyms
Benefits of Strong Grammar & Vocabulary
- Clarity: Your writing becomes easy to read and understand
- Professionalism: Examiner sees you as job-ready
- Higher Marks: Well-written answers create a positive impression
- Time Saving: Writing becomes faster when words come naturally
Conclusion
Grammar and vocabulary are the backbone of LIC AAO 2025 Descriptive English preparation. By mastering key grammar rules and consistently learning high-utility words, you can write with clarity, precision, and confidence.
Start today with a small, manageable practice plan — revise one grammar concept and learn 5 new words daily. Over time, this habit will drastically improve the quality of your descriptive answers and help you clear the qualifying cutoff comfortably.