A Step-by-Step Guide to Precis Writing for the NABARD Grade A Exam

Precis writing is a critical skill tested in the NABARD Grade A Exam. It involves summarizing lengthy passages concisely while capturing the main points and essence of the original text. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you master the art of precis writing and excel in the exam:

Step 1: Read the Passage Carefully

  • Begin by thoroughly reading the given passage to understand its central theme and main ideas.
  • Identify the author’s perspective and the purpose behind the passage.

Step 2: Identify Key Points

  • Highlight or underline the crucial points, arguments, and supporting examples in the passage.
  • Focus on the essential information that must be included in your precis.

Step 3: Comprehend the Tone and Style

  • Pay attention to the author’s tone and writing style in the original passage (formal, informal, persuasive, informative, etc.).
  • Maintain the same tone while writing your precis.

Step 4: Determine the Word Limit

  • Check the prescribed word limit for the precis (usually between 150 to 250 words).
  • Ensure that your precis fits within the specified limit without exceeding it.

Step 5: Use Your Own Words

  • Express the ideas and main points in your own words while retaining the core message of the original passage.
  • Avoid direct quotations from the given text.

Step 6: Write in Third Person and Past Tense

  • Always write the precis in the third person and past tense, as it is a summary of a previously written passage.

Step 7: Maintain Coherence and Logical Flow

  • Arrange the summarized points in a coherent and logical order to create a well-structured precis.
  • Preserve the sequence of ideas presented in the original passage.

Step 8: Omit Irrelevant Information

  • Eliminate any unnecessary or repetitive information that does not contribute to the core message of the passage.

Step 9: Avoid Personal Opinions

  • A precis should be an objective summary and must not include any personal opinions or interpretations.

Step 10: Practice Regularly

  • Regular practice is crucial to improving precis writing skills.
  • Practice summarizing passages from various topics and disciplines to enhance versatility.

Step 11: Revision and Editing

  • After writing the precis, review and revise it to correct grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and ensure coherence.
  • Ensure that the final precis meets the prescribed word limit.

Precis writing is an art that requires practice and attention to detail. Developing this skill will not only boost your performance in the NABARD Grade A Exam but also enhance your overall communication abilities. With consistent practice and adherence to this step-by-step guide, you can confidently tackle precis writing and stand out in the exam.