Introduction
The Descriptive Writing section of the NPS Grade A 2025 Exam tests a candidate’s ability to articulate ideas effectively, present arguments logically, and write with clarity. Many aspirants make avoidable mistakes in essay writing and precis writing, which lowers their scores.
This article highlights the most common mistakes in NPS Grade A Descriptive Writing and provides practical strategies to improve your writing skills.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Descriptive Writing
1. Lack of a Clear Structure
- Mistake: Writing essays or precis without a proper introduction, body, or conclusion.
- Solution: Follow a structured approach –
- Essay: Introduction → Main Body → Conclusion
- Precis: Title → Summary (one-third of the original passage)
2. Writing Off-Topic Responses
- Mistake: Not addressing the core issue of the essay prompt.
- Solution: Carefully analyze the topic before writing and create a rough outline to stay focused.
3. Overuse of Complex Vocabulary
- Mistake: Using unnecessary jargon and difficult words.
- Solution: Keep language clear, precise, and reader-friendly.
4. Grammatical and Spelling Errors
- Mistake: Frequent grammatical mistakes and misspellings reduce readability.
- Solution: Proofread thoroughly and use grammar-check tools before submitting.
5. Lack of Data and Examples
- Mistake: Essays without relevant data, facts, or examples appear weak.
- Solution: Use real-world examples, statistics, and government reports to strengthen arguments.
6. Writing in a Biased or Unbalanced Manner
- Mistake: Presenting only one side of the argument.
- Solution: Maintain a neutral and balanced perspective with both pros and cons.
7. Poor Time Management
- Mistake: Spending too much time on one section and rushing through another.
- Solution: Allocate time wisely:
- Essay: 30-35 minutes
- Precis Writing: 20-25 minutes
- Proofreading: 5-10 minutes
8. Exceeding or Falling Short of Word Limits
- Mistake: Writing too much or too little can lead to penalty marks.
- Solution: Stick to the word limit (e.g., Essay: 250-300 words, Precis: 120-150 words).
9. Not Practicing Enough
- Mistake: Relying on theory without writing practice.
- Solution: Write one essay and one precis every week and get feedback.
Tips for Improving Descriptive Writing
- Read Editorials & Reports: Follow newspapers like The Hindu and Economic Times.
- Practice Writing Daily: Work on essay and precis topics frequently.
- Use Active Voice: It makes writing crisper and more impactful.
- Stay Updated: Follow recent developments in economy, finance, and policy reforms.
Conclusion
To ace NPS Grade A 2025 Descriptive Writing, candidates must avoid common mistakes and adopt a structured, concise, and well-informed approach. By focusing on clarity, grammar, structure, and relevant content, you can maximize your scores and perform exceptionally well in the exam.