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Published on: Dec 3, 2019
Last updated on: Dec 21, 2022
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A precis is a summary of the written work, and it explains the main argument without doing critical analysis. Also, it does not require you to write your personal opinion.
Writing a precis is a complex or challenging task for some students because not every student has to know how to use the skill of conciseness in their writing.
Therefore, continue reading this blog and know how to write a précis writing like professional writers.
A precis is a piece of writing in which the writer summarizes another text, key ideas, and arguments. It is usually written about a book, an article, or a novel. Therefore, in precis, an in-depth critical analysis should not be required. However, the writer objectively explains the situation that is narrated in the book or the literary piece.
The main purpose of the precis is to keep the essence of the original report in a manner that is both clear and concise.
Moreover, the precis is written according to the author’s point of view. It explains the core of the text. The writer’s personal opinion is not included in the precis; only essential parts or points are covered.
A good rhetorical précis should be:
However, in precis, you should follow the proper format and include the main examples where relevant.
Precis writing is one of the most efficient methods that provide the crux of a lengthy written work. Nowadays, people are so busy and have enough time to read journals, newspapers, books, etc. Therefore, they only require the main points, and in this situation, the precis is the best solution.
Here are some benefits of precis writing:
The precis is common academic writing, and it is different from a precis essay. Its format is not difficult, and you should follow it to create a well-written precis. Here is a format for your ease.
Introduction
Main Body
Conclusion
Writing a great precis seems like a challenging task if you don’t know how to write it. However, it’s simple and easy if you follow the proper steps.
Therefore, for your help, we have gathered some steps to follow while writing a perfect precis.
1. Read The Text
First, you have to understand what the author has written. Make sure you have a clear understanding of their argument.
However, read the text several times if you don’t understand it. If you notice any unfamiliar word, search it and understand it before writing in the precis.
2. Annotate the Text
In this step, identify the important information and make notes. This step is necessary because it shows you how well you understand the text. Also, it will help you decide what’s important information is included in the precis.
Therefore, you can use different colored highlighters and highlight the supporting arguments and major details. Also, write notes in the margins and explain the main arguments in your own words.
3. Restate the Text Thesis
The thesis is the part in which the author’s argument contains and is essential for the precis. You can easily get the thesis statement at the beginning of the text.
However, if you read a longer text, you may need to do a close reading to find the thesis statement. Also, you should know what the author is trying to prove or show.
4. Summarize Each Section of the Text
Divide the text into different sections such as headings, subheadings, or chapters. It will help you understand the text, and you can easily write the precis without forgetting the main points.
When you write the precis of a novel, summarize each chapter. In contrast, if you write a precis for a journal that is already divided into sections, you summarize each paragraph. Make sure that you include only the key points and strong evidence in the precis.
5. Determine the Author’s Purpose of Writing
You must explain the author’s purpose in your precis writing. Sometimes, the authors don’t state it, so you should determine it yourself. You should have to keep some questions in mind when determining the purpose of writing.
Therefore, these questions will help you to figure out the purpose of your precis.
6. Develop the Precis Outline
The outline will help you in writing the precis effectively. It's like a roadmap and keeps your information organized, therefore try to create an effective one from scratch or with some minor adjustments for style as needed.
7. Start the Writing Phase
In the first sentence of the precis, introduce the author, genre, date, and topic. This information is necessary for the readers to understand the precis.
Explain how the author supports their argument in the second sentence. Then, explain the main purpose of the text that the author is trying to achieve. Lastly, describe the intended audience and restate the main idea.
However, before starting to write the precis, you should consult your teacher and understand their guidelines.
8. Revising and Proofreading your Precis
When you finish writing the precis, start the revising and proofreading step. In this stage, you need to improve the typos, spelling, and grammar mistakes. Compare your precis with the original text and eliminate the redundant text.
You can also ask someone to proofread your work, and then you remove all the mistakes. However, make sure that your precis is free from all mistakes and errors.
Have a look at the following template to get a better idea of writing a precis.
Here are some tips that you should follow to write a great precis.
Therefore, now you have to know how to write a great precis in easy and simple steps. However, if you need expert writing help, consult MyPerfectWords.com. We are the best online essay writing service that helps you with all your academic assignments.
So, what are you waiting for? Simply hire our online essay writer and get professional writing help.
The length of the precis should vary. However, it can be 100-200 words long.
You can easily write a precis in the third person and past tense. However, a precis should always write in your own words and without borrowing from the original passage.
WRITTEN BY
Barbara P (Literature, Marketing)
Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.
Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.
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