Precis writing is an essential skill tested in the NPS Grade A 2025 Descriptive English Paper. It evaluates your ability to summarize a given passage concisely while maintaining its essential meaning. A well-written precis must be clear, objective, and structured, ensuring that no critical information is lost.
If you struggle with making your summaries concise and effective, don’t worry! This guide will take you through step-by-step strategies, format, and expert tips to help you write a perfect precis for NPS Grade A 2025.
What is Precis Writing?
A precis is a short, structured summary of a passage that retains its main ideas while removing unnecessary details. Unlike paraphrasing, a precis must be concise and to the point without distorting the original message.
Characteristics of a Good Precis:
✔ Concise – Should be around one-third of the original passage length.
✔ Coherent – Should maintain logical flow and organization.
✔ Objective – No personal opinions, only the key message of the passage.
✔ Accurate – Should not change the meaning of the original text.
Format of a Perfect Precis
A well-structured precis follows this format:
1️⃣ Title – A short, meaningful title that reflects the theme of the passage.
2️⃣ Introduction – A single sentence that conveys the main idea of the passage.
3️⃣ Body – The summarized content of the passage, covering key points concisely.
4️⃣ Conclusion – A final wrap-up that maintains coherence without adding new ideas.
Word Limit: The precis should typically be one-third of the original passage length.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Perfect Precis
Step 1: Read the Passage Carefully
✔ Read the passage twice to understand its core message.
✔ Identify the main theme and key supporting points.
✔ Highlight important facts, figures, or arguments.
Step 2: Identify and Eliminate Redundant Information
✔ Remove examples, repetitions, and unnecessary explanations.
✔ Keep only the core facts and logical arguments.
Step 3: Write the Precis in Your Own Words
✔ Avoid copying exact phrases from the passage.
✔ Use simple, formal, and precise language.
Step 4: Maintain a Neutral and Formal Tone
✔ Stick to third-person narration.
✔ Avoid personal opinions, exaggeration, or unnecessary adjectives.
Step 5: Revise and Edit
✔ Check the word limit and ensure conciseness.
✔ Correct grammar, punctuation, and coherence issues.
✔ Ensure logical flow between sentences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Precis Writing
❌ Exceeding the Word Limit – Keep it one-third of the original passage.
❌ Adding Personal Opinions – Precis should remain objective.
❌ Using Informal Language – Keep it formal and professional.
❌ Ignoring Logical Flow – Maintain clear transitions between ideas.
❌ Omitting Important Information – Ensure all key points are covered.
Example of Precis Writing
Original Passage (150 Words):
“Renewable energy is becoming the future of global energy consumption. The rapid depletion of fossil fuels and increasing environmental concerns have driven nations to adopt sustainable energy sources. Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are gaining popularity due to their minimal environmental impact. Governments worldwide are promoting green energy through subsidies and regulations. The cost of renewable energy is also declining, making it a viable alternative to fossil fuels. Despite challenges like energy storage and infrastructure development, technological advancements continue to improve efficiency. The shift toward renewable energy is essential to combat climate change and ensure long-term energy security.”
Precis (50 Words):
Title: The Rise of Renewable Energy
The global transition to renewable energy is driven by fossil fuel depletion and environmental concerns. Solar, wind, and hydro power are emerging as sustainable solutions. Governments support this shift with policies and subsidies. Despite infrastructure challenges, advancements in technology are enhancing efficiency, making green energy the future of global consumption.
Final Tips for Writing a High-Scoring Precis in NPS Grade A 2025
✅ Practice summarizing news articles or editorials to improve skills.
✅ Use a timer to enhance speed and efficiency.
✅ Expand your vocabulary to write concisely and effectively.
✅ Review past exam questions to understand expected precis formats.
✅ Proofread your answer to avoid grammar mistakes.
Mastering precis writing is a crucial step toward excelling in the NPS Grade A 2025 Descriptive English Paper. By following these structured techniques, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance and score high marks.
🚀 Stay connected for more expert tips on NPS Grade A 2025 preparation!