Introduction
For NABARD Grade A aspirants, Phase 2 is the gateway to the final selection — and the Descriptive English Paper often becomes the deciding factor. It carries 100 marks and evaluates not just your knowledge but your ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and professionally.
The good news? Unlike objective papers, this one can be mastered with systematic practice, time discipline, and a smart approach. Many toppers credit this paper for their final selection because it is possible to score 70+ marks consistently with the right strategy.
This post is a complete roadmap to help you achieve that score by focusing on essay writing, letter writing, precis writing, vocabulary, and typing speed.
Paper Structure & Marking Scheme
| Section | Marks | Word Limit | No. of Questions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essay Writing | 40 | ~500–520 words | 1 out of 4 topics |
| Letter Writing | 30 | ~200–220 words | 1 out of 3 topics |
| Precis Writing | 30 | ~120 words | 1 passage |
Total: 100 Marks
Duration: 90 Minutes
Mode: Online (keyboard typing)
Your goal: 70+ marks = 70%+ accuracy in all three sections.
Section-Wise Smart Strategy
1. Essay Writing – 40 Marks
Essay carries the highest weightage, making it your biggest scoring opportunity.
Step 1: Topic Selection (2–3 mins)
Choose the topic you have maximum content for — not just what “sounds good.”
Step 2: Outline Creation (5 mins)
Prepare a mini framework:
- Intro: Define the topic + context + fact/quote
- Body: 2–3 paragraphs (current scenario → challenges → government schemes → suggestions)
- Conclusion: Balanced, solution-oriented
Step 3: Structured Writing (30 mins)
Follow the ICE Formula:
- Introduction: 50–70 words
- Content: 350–380 words (data points, examples, subheadings)
- Ending: 50 words (positive, forward-looking)
Step 4: Proofreading (2–3 mins)
Check grammar, spelling, sentence flow, and word count.
Smart Tip:
Prepare 10–15 most probable essays in advance — topics on agriculture, financial inclusion, climate change, rural development, renewable energy, women empowerment — and memorize key points + data.
2. Letter Writing – 30 Marks
Letter writing checks your ability to draft formal, concise communication — a skill crucial for officers.
Standard Format:
Sender’s Address
Date
Receiver’s Address
Subject: Purpose of Letter
Salutation (Sir/Madam)
Paragraph 1 – Introduce purpose
Paragraph 2 – Explain problem/request in detail
Paragraph 3 – Suggest solution/close politely
Thanking You,
Yours faithfully/sincerely,
(Signature)
Key Points to Score High:
- Use polite, professional language
- Stick to 200–230 words
- Keep subject line meaningful (max 1 line)
- Avoid grammar/spelling errors
Smart Tip: Practice writing letters to municipal authorities, government officials, editors, and organizations — these are the most frequently asked formats.
3. Precis Writing – 30 Marks
Precis writing tests comprehension + summarization skills.
4-Step Smart Approach:
- Read Passage Twice: First for understanding, second for underlining key points.
- Write Rough Draft: Remove examples, quotes, and filler words.
- Create Final Precis: Rewrite in 1/3rd length using simple, connected sentences.
- Add Title: Short and meaningful — captures central theme.
Smart Tip: Practice summarizing editorials from The Hindu, Down To Earth, or Indian Express in 120 words. This builds speed + accuracy.
Time Management Plan (90 Minutes)
| Section | Suggested Time |
|---|---|
| Letter Writing | 20 mins |
| Precis Writing | 25 mins |
| Essay Writing | 40 mins |
| Review & Proofreading | 5 mins |
Start with letter writing (quick marks), then precis (mental freshness required), and keep essay last (largest word count).
Vocabulary & Expression Building
Strong vocabulary can add 3–4 extra marks to your paper.
Key Words to Learn:
- Rural economy: credit penetration, agri-value chain, financial inclusion
- Policy terms: fiscal outlay, capital infusion, supply chain resilience
- Connectors: Moreover, Consequently, However, Henceforth
Smart Tip: Maintain a vocabulary journal & practice using 5 new words daily in sentences.
Typing Speed – The Hidden X-Factor
Even the best ideas won’t fetch marks if you can’t finish typing.
- Target 30–35 WPM with 90%+ accuracy
- Practice on platforms like TypingClub or 10FastFingers
- Simulate exam conditions weekly
Practice Plan – 4 Weeks
| Week | Focus | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Basics | Learn formats, write 2 essays & 2 letters |
| 2 | Speed & Accuracy | 5 precis exercises + 2 essays under timer |
| 3 | Full-Length Mock | Attempt 2 complete descriptive papers |
| 4 | Revision | Refine vocabulary, data points, typing drills |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Crossing word limit – leads to negative marking.
- ❌ Informal tone in letters – must be professional.
- ❌ Unstructured essay – always write in clear paragraphs.
- ❌ Copy-paste sentences in precis – must paraphrase.
- ❌ No proofreading – even 3–4 grammar errors can cost 5+ marks.
Self-Evaluation Checklist
After each practice, check:
- ✅ Word count compliance
- ✅ Grammar & spelling
- ✅ Flow and paragraphing
- ✅ Use of connectors and vocabulary
- ✅ Logical conclusion
How to Hit the 70+ Mark
- Essay: Aim for 28–30 marks with data-backed arguments
- Letter: Target 21–23 marks by sticking to format
- Precis: Target 21–23 marks with perfect length & title
Consistently practicing with a timer will help you reach 70–75 marks reliably.
Conclusion
Scoring 70+ in NABARD Grade A 2025 Descriptive Paper is not about writing Shakespearean English — it’s about clarity, structure, and time discipline.
By following this strategy:
- You finish all three questions within time
- You write professional, examiner-friendly answers
- You gain an edge over competitors who underprepare this section
Start today — build your essay bank, practice letters, solve precis passages, and take weekly mocks. By exam day, you’ll walk in confident and walk out with a high descriptive score that pushes you into the final merit list.