Precis writing is a crucial component of the NPS Grade A 2025 Descriptive English Paper, assessing a candidate’s ability to summarize a passage concisely while retaining its core message. Writing a precise and structured summary within the word limit requires practice, clarity, and an understanding of key strategies.
This comprehensive guide will help you master precis writing by covering format, rules, expert tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
What is Precis Writing?
A precis is a brief, well-structured summary of a given passage that retains its key ideas while eliminating redundant information. Unlike paraphrasing, a precis must be concise and direct without altering the meaning of the original text.
Key Features of a Good Precis:
✔ Concise – Should be one-third of the original passage length.
✔ Coherent – Must maintain logical flow and organization.
✔ Objective – No personal opinions; only essential points.
✔ Accurate – Should not misinterpret or distort the original message.
Format of a High-Scoring Precis
To score well in NPS Grade A 2025, follow this structured precis writing format:
1️⃣ Title – A short, meaningful title that represents the passage’s main theme.
2️⃣ Introduction – One sentence that captures the core idea of the passage.
3️⃣ Body – Summarized key points, maintaining logical flow and coherence.
4️⃣ Conclusion – A final sentence that wraps up the passage concisely.
📌 Word Limit: The precis should typically be one-third of the original passage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Perfect Precis
Step 1: Read the Passage Carefully
✔ Understand the main idea and key supporting arguments.
✔ Identify important facts, statistics, and logical points.
✔ Highlight crucial details while ignoring redundant information.
Step 2: Identify and Remove Unnecessary Details
✔ Avoid examples, illustrations, and repetitive ideas.
✔ Keep only facts, key points, and the core argument.
Step 3: Write the Precis in Your Own Words
✔ Do not copy sentences from the passage.
✔ Use clear, precise, and formal language.
Step 4: Maintain a Neutral & Formal Tone
✔ Use third-person narration to keep it professional.
✔ Avoid opinions, personal reflections, or unnecessary adjectives.
Step 5: Proofread & Edit
✔ Check for grammatical errors and clarity.
✔ Ensure cohesiveness and logical transitions.
✔ Stick to the word limit and review for completeness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Precis Writing
❌ Exceeding the Word Limit – Precis must be concise and within one-third of the passage.
❌ Including Personal Opinions – Keep the summary objective and factual.
❌ Using Informal Language – The tone must be formal and professional.
❌ Losing Logical Flow – Ensure the summary flows smoothly without abrupt jumps.
❌ Skipping Important Details – Cover all essential points without missing key ideas.
Example of Precis Writing
Original Passage (150 Words):
“The rise of digital banking has transformed financial transactions globally. Traditional banking, which required physical presence and paperwork, is now being replaced by online and mobile banking solutions. Customers can transfer funds, apply for loans, and manage their finances remotely. This shift has improved convenience, security, and efficiency. However, concerns over cybersecurity, digital literacy, and accessibility for older populations remain. While banks continue to innovate with AI-driven services and digital payments, ensuring inclusive and secure digital banking remains a challenge. Governments and financial institutions must work together to enhance cybersecurity measures, improve financial education, and ensure equal access to digital services for all demographics.”
Precis (50 Words):
Title: The Digital Banking Revolution
Digital banking has replaced traditional banking by enabling online financial transactions. It offers convenience, security, and efficiency but poses cybersecurity and accessibility challenges. AI-driven banking innovations continue to evolve, requiring collaborative efforts from governments and financial institutions to ensure inclusivity, security, and digital literacy for all users.
Final Tips to Ace Precis Writing in NPS Grade A 2025
✅ Practice summarizing newspaper articles or editorials to improve precision.
✅ Use a stopwatch while practicing to enhance speed and accuracy.
✅ Expand your vocabulary to improve clarity and coherence.
✅ Solve previous years’ precis questions to understand the exam pattern.
✅ Proofread before submission to correct any grammar or formatting mistakes.
Mastering precis writing is key to excelling in the NPS Grade A 2025 Descriptive English Paper. By following the right format, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing regularly, you can significantly boost your chances of scoring high marks.
🚀 Stay tuned for more expert tips on NPS Grade A 2025 preparation!