Step-by-Step Guide to Score 20+ Marks in IBPS PO 2025 Descriptive English

The Descriptive English section in the IBPS PO Mains is a high-impact part: 25 marks, only 30 minutes, and now featuring Essay + Comprehension. (The letter writing component has been removed in 2025.)

To reliably hit 20+ marks, you must combine strong content, structured expression, typing fluency, and smart time management. Below is a step-by-step blueprint you (or your students) can follow every time in mock or real exam.

1. Understand the Pattern & Mark Allocation

Two tasks: Essay + Comprehension.
Total time: 30 minutes for both together.
Essay is often allotted 15 marks, and comprehension 10 marks.
Essay word-band: 250–300 words is the most recommended target.
Grammar, relevance, structure, coherence, spelling, and word limit all count in evaluation.

Knowing this exact shape lets you allocate effort appropriately.

2. Pre-Exam Setup & Mindset

Goal: 20+ / 25 → aim for ~ 12–14 in essay + 8–10 in comprehension (adjust based on your strength).
Mental mode: Think “precision over verbosity”. Avoid trying to “show off” excessively; clear, relevant content wins.
Typing fluency matters: Use a keyboard in practice, not on paper or mobile. You need to be comfortable typing under pressure.

3. Minute-Wise Game Plan (30 Minutes)

Here’s a disciplined schedule to follow in every mock / exam:

Time	Activity	Objective / Tips
0:00 – 1:30	Scan & decide order	Quickly glance at comprehension passage; decide whether to start with essay or comprehension based on which feels stronger.
1:30 – 3:00	Outline essay	Jot down in 4–5 lines: thesis, 2–3 key points, proposed solutions, and conclusion.
3:00 – 15:30	Write essay	Use your outline; stick to the structure. Try to reach 250–300 words at a steady pace.
15:30 – 26:30	Solve comprehension	Read the passage, then answer the questions in your own words. Be direct, relevant, and avoid copying.
26:30 – 30:00	Proofread & polish	Check grammar, spelling, transitions, remove fluff, ensure word limit, and correct any glaring mistakes.

Stick to this schedule rigidly. If you fall behind, don’t try to catch up in a panic—adjust and push forward.

4. Essay Writing: Structure, Content & Language

A. Choose a Strong Framework

Pick one structure and use it consistently:

Problem → Causes → Solutions → Impact / Way Forward
PEEL: Point → Evidence / Example → Explanation → Link
Compare & Contrast → Judgment / Recommendation (if topic suits it)

This gives your essay shape and ensures every paragraph adds value.

B. Paragraph Plan (5 paragraphs ideal)

Introduction (2–3 lines)
Define the topic, indicate the importance, and state your thesis clearly.
Body Paragraph 1
First key point + supporting reasoning or example.
Body Paragraph 2
Second key point (or counterpoint + rebuttal) + example.
Way Forward / Solutions
Concrete, actionable steps (mention stakeholders: government, banks, citizens, regulators).
Conclusion (1–2 lines)
Reaffirm thesis and deliver a “takeaway” message (a forward-looking, hope-oriented line).

C. Language & Style Tips

Use simple, precise language. No over-complicated vocabulary unless you are 100% sure of its meaning.
Keep short to medium sentences.
Use connectors / transitions: However, Moreover, Therefore, In contrast, On the other hand, Thus.
If you mention data, do so cautiously (rounded numbers). Don’t over-crowd with statistics unless you’re certain.
Avoid going off on tangents. Each sentence must relate to your thesis or supporting point.

5. Comprehension: Strategy & Execution

Read the passage (once, actively)
Mark / underline the main idea, tone, pivot sentences (where an author’s shift happens).
Interpret question type
Is it asking “Explain, Infer, Summarise, Tone, Role of X, etc.”?
Answer in your own words
Do not copy full sentences. Paraphrase, keeping clarity and brevity.
Stay precise & direct
For each question, stick to 2–4 lines (unless asked to summarise entire passage).
For summary question (if any)
Combine key ideas in a short paragraph, respecting logical flow—not inserting your own views.

6. Proofreading & Final Polish

Use the final 2.5–3.5 minutes to run through a quick checklist:

Did I stay within word limit for essay?
Are paragraphs coherent and transitions smooth?
Did I answer every comprehension question properly?
Any spelling, grammar, punctuation mistakes?
Are there redundant, irrelevant sentences? Remove them.
Does essay have a clear takeaway / conclusion?
Check subject-verb agreement, articles, tense consistency.

This last scan often saves you from avoidable marks loss.

7. Targeted Practice Routine (Weekly Cycle)

To ensure you can hit 20+ reliably, structure your weekly practice this way:

3 Days (30 mins each):
- Typing drills + speed & accuracy (use random short paragraphs).
- Essay outline drills: take a topic, write a 4-line skeleton.
- Comprehension paraphrase practice: read small passages, answer 2–3 questions in your own words.
1 Day: Full 30-minute mock (Essay + Comprehension) following your minute plan.
1 Day: Deep review of that mock. Maintain an error log for recurring mistakes (grammar slips, weak transitions, off-topic sentences).
1 Day: Focused repetition: two comprehension passages back to back; one essay drafting, one shorter rewrite.
1 Day: Rest / reading of high-quality editorials (to absorb style, vocabulary, clarity).

Over a few cycles, your speed, structure, and clarity will improve steadily.

8. Self-Scoring Rubric for 20+ Assurance

After every mock, score yourself (0 to 5) in each dimension:

Dimension	Score (0–5)	Notes / To Improve
Relevance & Task Completion		Did you answer exactly what was asked?
Structure & Flow		Are paragraphs well organized with transitions?
Argument & Depth		Are your points supported & balanced?
Language & Grammar		Any recurring errors or awkward phrasing?
Comprehension Accuracy & Paraphrasing		Did you paraphrase well and stay precise?
Time Management & Completion		Did you finish within the timeline + proofread?

Aim for 4 or 5 in all categories consistently. Any dimension where you fall short becomes your next training focus.

9. On Exam Day: Final Tips & Psychological Hacks

Carry calm confidence: your practice plan is a muscle memory.
Use your first 1 minute to settle nerves and decide your order.
When you feel uneasy mid-way, don’t overthink—stick to your minute plan.
If you lose time, compress non-critical parts rather than skipping them entirely.
Use power words in conclusion (e.g. “must”, “essential”, “path forward”) to leave impact.
Don’t panic if you can’t perfect everything—aim for clarity, coherence, and completion.