The IRDAI Grade A Phase II Descriptive English paper is a game-changer. Many well-prepared candidates lose marks not because they lack knowledge, but because they fail to manage time efficiently. With multiple sections — Essay, Precis, Reading Comprehension, Letter/Business Correspondence, and Statement Expansion — completing the paper within the stipulated 60 to 90 minutes (as notified) can be a real challenge.
In this article, we will break down how to allocate time for each section, when to attempt which question, and practical tips to maximize your score under time pressure.
Why Time Management is Crucial
Descriptive papers are not like objective MCQs. Here, every minute counts because you must:
- Read, Think, and Write – not just mark answers.
- Organize thoughts into a structured response.
- Type quickly (for online descriptive papers).
If you spend too long on one section, you risk leaving others incomplete — which can severely impact your total marks.
Understanding the IRDAI Grade A Descriptive Paper Pattern
While the exact distribution may vary slightly, the typical weightage is:
- Essay Writing: 30 marks
- Precis Writing: 20 marks
- Reading Comprehension: 20 marks
- Business Correspondence (Letter/Email/Memo): 20 marks
- Statement Expansion: 10 marks
Total: 100 marks
Total Time: 60–90 minutes (as per notification)
This means you must write 4-5 structured answers within an hour — which demands speed, planning, and discipline.
Ideal Time Allocation
Here’s a suggested time allocation strategy for IRDAI Grade A 2025 Descriptive English (60-minute paper):
| Section | Marks | Suggested Time |
|---|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 30 | 20 mins |
| Precis Writing | 20 | 10-12 mins |
| Reading Comprehension | 20 | 10-12 mins |
| Business Correspondence | 20 | 10 mins |
| Statement Expansion | 10 | 6-8 mins |
This plan allows you to complete the paper with 2-3 minutes left for revision.
Section-wise Time Management Tips
1. Essay Writing (20 minutes)
Essay writing is the most time-consuming part, but also the highest-scoring.
Tips:
- Spend 3-4 minutes brainstorming and outlining before typing.
- Divide essay into Introduction – Body – Conclusion.
- Keep paragraphs short and crisp.
- Avoid over-explaining; stay within 500 words if asked.
Pro Tip: If you write faster, reduce essay time to 18 minutes and use the saved time for RC or Precis.
2. Precis Writing (10–12 minutes)
Precis is a quick but tricky section.
Tips:
- First read passage twice — 3 minutes.
- Identify key points and draft rough outline — 2 minutes.
- Write final precis with title — 4-5 minutes.
- Revise for grammar & length — 1 minute.
Golden Rule: Aim for one-third of the original passage length.
3. Reading Comprehension (10–12 minutes)
RC is often underestimated but can consume a lot of time if not approached systematically.
Tips:
- Skim the passage first — 2 minutes.
- Read questions before re-reading passage — helps focus on key details.
- Answer in short, clear sentences.
- Avoid copy-pasting large chunks from passage.
Pro Tip: Attempt direct fact-based questions first, then inference-based ones.
4. Business Correspondence (10 minutes)
This is one of the most scoring areas if done in proper format.
Tips:
- Memorize letter/email/memo format in advance.
- Use 3-paragraph structure: Introduction, Main Body, Conclusion.
- Keep language formal and professional.
- Spend last minute proofreading for spelling and tone.
5. Statement Expansion (6–8 minutes)
A short but important section.
Tips:
- Spend first 2 minutes understanding the statement and framing central idea.
- Write 80-120 words explaining meaning with example.
- Use transition words for flow.
- Conclude with a positive or moral note.
General Time Management Strategies
1. Attempt High-Weightage Section First
Always start with Essay Writing or whichever section you are strongest in. This ensures you secure maximum marks early on.
2. Keep a Watch on Time
Monitor the clock after every section. Ideally, by the halfway mark (30 minutes), you should have completed Essay + Precis.
3. Don’t Get Stuck
If you feel blocked, skip and come back later. Spending 5 extra minutes thinking about one question can cost marks in other sections.
4. Practice Typing Speed
Online descriptive papers are computer-based. Aim for 35-40 words per minute to comfortably complete typing.
5. Revision is Non-Negotiable
Keep 2-3 minutes at the end for quick proofreading — correct grammar, spelling, and word count errors.
Practice Plan for Time Management
Here’s a weekly routine to build speed and efficiency:
| Day | Task | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Mon | Timed Essay Practice (500 words) | 20 mins |
| Tue | Precis + RC back-to-back | 25 mins |
| Wed | Letter Writing + Statement Expansion | 20 mins |
| Thu | Full Mock (All Sections) | 60 mins |
| Fri | Error Analysis & Rewriting | 30 mins |
| Sat | Mock Test with Strict Time | 60 mins |
| Sun | Review & Vocabulary Building | 30 mins |
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Writing too much in essay: Leads to time shortage for other sections.
- Skipping outline preparation: Results in disorganized answers.
- Ignoring word limits: Exceeding limit may invite penalty.
- Not proofreading: Costly grammar/spelling mistakes can pull down marks.
Smart Last-Minute Strategy
- Revise formats (letter/email/memo) one day before exam.
- Practice at least one full mock paper in exact time limit two days before exam.
- Sleep well before exam day to maintain focus.
Final Words
Time management is not just about writing fast — it’s about writing smart and balanced answers in every section. By planning your approach, sticking to word limits, and keeping a steady pace, you can maximize your score in IRDAI Grade A 2025 Descriptive English.
Remember: Speed + Structure + Accuracy = Success.