Precis writing is the process of condensing a long passage into a shorter version while retaining its essence and key information. It involves identifying the main ideas, eliminating redundant information, and rewriting the text in a more concise and structured format.

The aim of precis writing is to present the essence of the original text in a shorter form without altering its meaning. Precis writing is commonly used in academic settings, such as summarizing research articles or textbooks, but it is also useful in everyday situations, such as writing emails or reports.

To write a good precis, it is important to read the original text carefully and identify its main ideas. Then, you should eliminate any unnecessary or repetitive information and rephrase the remaining text in a clear and concise manner. The final precis should be a shorter version of the original text that accurately represents its meaning.

Overall, precis writing is a valuable skill for anyone who wants to communicate effectively and efficiently. It helps to improve reading comprehension, writing skills, and the ability to convey information in a concise and meaningful way.

Techniques of Precis – Writing

There are several techniques that can be used to write an effective precis:

  1. Read the original text carefully and identify the main ideas and arguments presented.

  2. Analyze the structure of the original text, including its organization, paragraph structure, and transitions.

  3. Identify any key terms or phrases used in the original text and ensure they are included in your precis.

  4. Eliminate any unnecessary or redundant information that does not contribute to the main ideas or arguments.

  5. Rewrite the original text in your own words, while retaining the essential meaning and key information.

  6. Use a clear and concise writing style, avoiding overly complex sentences or jargon.

  7. Maintain the overall tone and style of the original text, while condensing it into a shorter form.

  8. Check your precis for accuracy and ensure that it reflects the original text’s main ideas and arguments.

  9. Revise and edit your precis as needed to ensure that it is clear, concise, and accurately represents the original text.

Overall, the key to writing an effective precis is to carefully analyze the original text, identify its main ideas and arguments, and condense them into a shorter form while retaining their essential meaning and key information.