Mind Over Matter

The CSS exam is one of Pakistan’s most competitive and prestigious exams that aims to recruit civil servants for various government departments. Every year, thousands of candidates appear for the exam, but only a few hundred are able to pass it. The exam consists of written, medical, psychological, and final interview and covers a wide range of subjects and topics. One skill required for the CSS and PMS exams is the ability to write a précis, which is a concise summary of a given text. A précis should capture the original text’s central idea, tone, and structure, without adding personal opinion or interpretation. A précis should also use clear and precise language, and avoid unnecessary details or repetitions.

Steps for Precis Writing

Following are the steps to practice precis writing before an exam and having mastered the art of precis, apply the same steps confidently during competitive exams.

Step 1: Read the passage carefully and understand the main idea
The first step in precis writing is reading the passage carefully and understanding its main idea. It would help if you tried to identify the author’s purpose, tone, audience, and message. You should also note any important facts, figures, examples, or arguments supporting the main idea. For example, the passage is about the benefits of solar energy. In that case, you should note the advantages of solar energy over other energy sources, such as cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and sustainability.

Step 2: Write down the main points in your own words
The second step in precis writing is to write down the main points of the passage in your own words. You should avoid copying any words or phrases from the original passage unless they are technical terms or quotations. You should also avoid adding any personal opinions, interpretations, or comments. It would help if you only wrote what the author has said, not what you think. For example, if the author has said that solar energy is cost-effective, you should write that solar energy is cost-effective, not that solar energy is cheap or affordable.

Step 3: Organize the main points into a logical structure
The third step in precis writing is to organize the main points into a logical structure. You should arrange the main points in a way that makes sense and follows the flow of the original passage. Using appropriate connectors, transitions, and keywords to link the main points and show their relationship would be best. For example, if the author has used words like firstly, secondly, thirdly, etc. to introduce the main points, you should use similar words to organize your precis. You can also use words like however, therefore, moreover, etc. to show contrast, cause-and-effect, or addition.

Step 4: Write the precis in a clear and concise language
The fourth step in precis writing is to write the precis clearly and concisely. Use simple and direct sentences without any unnecessary words or details. You should also use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. Make sure that your precis is coherent, accurate, and complete. For example, if the original passage has 500 words, your precis should have about 167 words (one-third of the length). Your precis should have a title that reflects the passage’s main idea. Your precis should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.

Step 5: Compare your precis with the original passage and revise if needed
The final step in precis writing is to compare your precis with the original passage and revise it if needed. You should check if your precis has captured the passage’s main idea and essential points without any distortion or omission. You should also check if your precis has maintained the same tone and style as the original passage. You should make any required changes or corrections to improve your precis. For example, you can read your precis aloud or ask someone else to read it and give you feedback.

You can read about CSS Preparation in the following post:

CSS Preparation

Samples of Precis Writing

Sample Text A

Democracy is more than a system of government; it is a way of life. We can assess the health of a democracy by how well it protects human rights, especially those of its minorities; by how well it promotes equality among its citizens; by how well it creates opportunities for social and economic mobility; by how well it fosters civic participation and engagement; by how well it safeguards its institutions from corruption and abuse of power; and by how well it respects the rule of law and resolves conflicts peacefully. Democracy is not a static or perfect system; it is a dynamic and imperfect one that requires constant vigilance and improvement by its citizens.

Precis A

The writer defines democracy as a way of life that involves various aspects such as human rights, equality, opportunity, participation, integrity, and peace. The writer also acknowledges that democracy is not flawless and needs constant monitoring and reform by its citizens.

Sample Text B

Pakistan is blessed with immense natural beauty and diversity. From the majestic mountains of the north to the lush green plains of the south, from the arid deserts of the west to the fertile deltas of the east, Pakistan offers a variety of landscapes and climates that attract tourists from all over the world. Pakistan also has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its history, traditions and values. Pakistan has many historical monuments, archaeological sites, religious shrines and festivals that showcase its cultural diversity and harmony. Pakistan is also home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations, such as the Indus Valley, Gandhara and Mehrgarh, that have left their marks on its soil. Pakistan is a country that has a lot to offer its visitors, who can enjoy its natural beauty, cultural diversity and hospitality.

Precis B

The passage highlights the natural and cultural attractions of Pakistan for tourists. It describes the different regions of Pakistan in terms of their landscapes, climates and features. It also mentions some of the historical and religious aspects of Pakistan’s culture that reflect its diversity and harmony. The passage conveys a positive image of Pakistan as a tourist destination.

In conclusion, precis writing is an important skill that can help you improve your reading comprehension, writing skills, and critical thinking abilities. By learning the techniques of precis writing, you can learn to identify the main points of a text, organize your thoughts clearly, and express yourself concisely. In addition, improving your English language skills will also help you succeed in precis writing. This is because precis writing requires you to use accurate grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary. By working on both your precis writing skills and your English language skills, you can become a more effective communicator and succeed in the CSS exam.