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How to Write a Precis for GCE A/L English

This document provides a step-by-step guide for writing a precis for GCE A/L English (Sri Lanka syllabus), emphasizing the importance of understanding the main ideas and using one's own words. It outlines specific steps including reading the passage, noting key points, planning the structure, and revising for clarity and conciseness. Additionally, it includes common phrases for precis writing and a mini example to illustrate the process.

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33 views3 pages

How to Write a Precis for GCE A/L English

This document provides a step-by-step guide for writing a precis for GCE A/L English (Sri Lanka syllabus), emphasizing the importance of understanding the main ideas and using one's own words. It outlines specific steps including reading the passage, noting key points, planning the structure, and revising for clarity and conciseness. Additionally, it includes common phrases for precis writing and a mini example to illustrate the process.

Uploaded by

jonylakshayan15
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Here’s a step-by-step guide to writing a precis for GCE A/L English (Sri Lanka syllabus), with

clear tips, rules, and examples:

1. Understand what a precis is


A precis is a shortened version of a passage that:

 Keeps the main ideas


 Uses your own words
 Is coherent and grammatically correct
 Omits examples, illustrations, and repetitions

Think: “What is the passage really saying?”

2. Steps for Writing a Precis


Step 1: Read the passage carefully

 Read it 2–3 times


 Understand: topic, purpose, and main ideas
 Identify: key points (often one per paragraph)

Step 2: Underline / Note key points

 Don’t try to memorize the passage word-for-word


 Focus on:
o Main argument or theme
o Supporting points (briefly)
o Any conclusion

Step 3: Plan the structure

 Most precis follow the same logical order as the original passage
 Usually: Introduction → Body (key points) → Conclusion
Step 4: Write in your own words

 Do not copy sentences directly


 Use synonyms where possible
 Combine short sentences to make concise ones
 Use linking words:
o moreover, however, therefore, as a result, in addition

Step 5: Keep it concise

 Usually, a precis is 1/3 or 1/4 the length of the original passage


 Avoid unnecessary adjectives or details
 Only include essential ideas

Step 6: Revise and check

 Make sure your precis:


o Has all main ideas
o Is clear and grammatical
o Has no new ideas or opinions
o Uses concise language

3. Common Phrases for Precis Writing


 “The author argues that…”
 “It is suggested that…”
 “According to the passage…”
 “The main idea is that…”
 “In conclusion, the passage emphasizes that…”

4. Mini Example
Original passage (short):
“Global warming is a serious problem. Rising temperatures have caused glaciers to melt and sea
levels to rise. Scientists warn that if no action is taken, many coastal areas will be submerged. It
is important for governments and individuals to take measures to reduce carbon emissions.”

Precis:

Global warming is a serious issue, causing glaciers to melt and sea levels to rise. Scientists warn
that without action, coastal areas may be submerged. Governments and individuals must take
measures to reduce carbon emissions.

✅ Notice:

 Main ideas kept


 Examples removed
 Concise and clear

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