Introduction
Precis Writing is a vital component of the IFSCA Grade A Phase II Descriptive English Paper, carrying 35 marks. The task is to read a long passage (usually 500–600 words), comprehend it fully, and compress it into a clear, concise version that is one-third of the original length—typically around 170–180 words.
This skill demonstrates your ability to extract key ideas, eliminate redundancy, and write objectively—traits essential for a regulatory role in IFSCA. In this post, we provide the ideal precis writing format, the step-by-step process, scoring strategy, and a full sample passage with a model precis.
IFSCA Grade A Precis Writing: Exam Snapshot
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Section | Precis Writing |
| Marks Allotted | 35 |
| Time Suggested | 20 minutes |
| Ideal Word Count | One-third of passage (170–180) |
| Must Include | Title + Single Paragraph |
| Key Requirement | Clarity, objectivity, brevity |
Precis Writing Format for IFSCA Grade A
Your precis should have the following structure:
- Title – 5–8 words capturing the central theme. No underlines or bold fonts.
- Body Paragraph – Single, compact paragraph with all key points from the original passage, rewritten in your own words.
Formatting Tips:
- Do not copy phrases from the passage. Use original expression.
- Maintain the author’s tone—do not insert your opinion.
- Ensure logical flow, even if you rearrange points from the original.
- Avoid examples, data, or elaborations unless they’re core to the message.
Step-by-Step Precis Writing Strategy
Step 1: Read the Passage Thoroughly
- Read the full passage once for overall understanding.
- Second reading: underline or note main points, transitions, and conclusions.
Step 2: Identify the Central Idea
- Ask: What is the passage about? What does the author want to convey?
Step 3: Create a Rough Outline
- List out 5–7 key points. Remove examples, anecdotes, and illustrations.
Step 4: Choose a Title
- Reflect the essence of the passage in 5–8 words.
- Avoid poetic or vague titles. Be specific and formal.
Step 5: Write the Precis
- Begin directly with the main idea.
- Use simple, formal English.
- Maintain coherence through transition words like therefore, however, moreover, etc.
Step 6: Word Count & Proofread
- Ensure it is exactly 1/3rd of the original passage’s word count.
- Check grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and spelling.
Sample Passage (Approx. 510 Words)
In recent years, India has intensified its efforts to become a global financial powerhouse, and the establishment of GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) is a testament to this vision. Designed as India’s first operational International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), GIFT City aims to bring financial services currently being carried out offshore back to Indian soil. It offers a unified regulatory framework under the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), enabling a seamless environment for banking, insurance, asset management, and fintech operations. One of the key advantages of GIFT City is its strategic tax incentives and business-friendly policies, which make it a compelling destination for global financial institutions. Moreover, the city is emerging as a hub for innovation in financial technology. Regulatory sandboxes, ease of capital movement, and a streamlined compliance structure have facilitated rapid digital adoption and cross-border transactions.
IFSCA has adopted a proactive regulatory approach that balances innovation and risk. It is actively encouraging participation from fintech startups, wealth management firms, and alternative investment platforms. The regulator’s collaboration with global financial bodies reflects its aim to align India with international standards. However, challenges remain. GIFT City needs substantial infrastructural development to compete with global financial centers like Singapore and Dubai. There is also the need for greater awareness among international investors and consistent policy communication.
To address these issues, IFSCA is focusing on regulatory reforms, workforce development, and expanding the financial ecosystem within GIFT City. India’s rising digital economy, coupled with support from the government and central bank, gives GIFT City the momentum it needs. If properly nurtured, it can serve as a sustainable and scalable financial hub that meets both domestic and global needs. The road ahead is not without hurdles, but the potential is vast.
Word Count of the Passage: 510
Target Precis Word Count: ~170 (1/3rd of 510)
Model Precis
Title: GIFT City: India’s Vision for Global Finance
India’s GIFT City is poised to become a global financial hub by bringing offshore financial services within its borders. Governed by IFSCA, it offers a unified regulatory framework for banking, insurance, fintech, and asset management. Strategic tax incentives and regulatory sandboxes have attracted global firms and encouraged digital innovation. IFSCA’s proactive approach aligns India with international standards while promoting cross-border participation. However, GIFT City must overcome challenges such as limited infrastructure and the need for stronger global investor engagement. The authority is working on regulatory reforms, ecosystem expansion, and workforce development to address these gaps. Backed by India’s growing digital economy and policy support, GIFT City has the potential to become a sustainable and competitive financial center.
Why This Precis Works
| Component | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Title | Summarizes the central idea crisply |
| Originality | Rewritten entirely in new words |
| Coherence | Follows logical sequence: idea → advantage → challenge → outlook |
| Tone | Formal and neutral (no personal opinions) |
| Length | ~170 words (approx. 1/3 of the original) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Hurts |
|---|---|
| Copying phrases from the passage | Shows lack of comprehension and effort |
| Missing the main idea | Leads to a vague or off-topic precis |
| Adding personal views | Precis must reflect the author’s tone, not yours |
| Including minor details | Makes the precis bulky and loses focus |
| Ignoring word limit | Can lead to penalty or marks deduction |
Daily Practice Routine (10–15 min)
- Pick a newspaper editorial (~500–600 words)
- Identify main points in 5 minutes
- Write a 170-word precis in 8–10 minutes
- Evaluate with checklist:
- Title
- Coherence
- Clarity
- Word Count
- Objectivity
Use Bank Whizz’s precis evaluation feature to get expert feedback.
How IFSCA Evaluates Your Precis
IFSCA paper evaluators will look for:
- Ability to compress ideas clearly
- Use of grammar and vocabulary
- Title relevance
- Logical flow of thought
- No spelling or syntax errors
Scoring high (25–30+) in this section can strongly boost your overall score.
Conclusion
Precis writing is not just about shortening a passage—it’s about conveying the core message in a refined and structured manner. For IFSCA Grade A 2024, it’s a golden opportunity to showcase your analytical and writing skills.
Stick to the format, practice regularly, and use mock evaluations to sharpen your skill. With consistency and a smart approach, you can master precis writing and secure a strong lead in the descriptive paper.
Join Bank Whizz’s full-length mock series to get access to original precis passages, model answers, and expert evaluation that mirrors IFSCA’s standards.