If you're preparing for the CSS exam in Pakistan, one of the trickiest yet high-scoring parts of the English paper is Precis Writing. Many candidates struggle with condensing long passages into meaningful summaries while maintaining the original tone and message. In this guide, you'll learn how to write a precis for the CSS exam, step-by-step—with a solved precis example, common mistakes to avoid, and expert tips.
📚 What Is Precis Writing?
A precis (pronounced pray-see) is a concise summary of a longer passage that captures its main idea, essential arguments, and tone—all in your own words. In the CSS English (Precis & Composition) paper, you're expected to reduce a passage to one-third of its original length, assign it a suitable title, and ensure clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy.
🎯 Why Precis Writing Matters in the CSS Exam
Precis writing tests much more than your ability to summarize. It evaluates your:
- Comprehension and understanding of complex texts
- Command of English grammar and vocabulary
- Analytical and organizational skills
- Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely
A well-written precis reflects maturity of thought and a refined writing style—both essential qualities for future bureaucrats.
🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Write a Precis in the CSS Exam
✅ 1. Read the Passage Thoroughly
- Read it 2–3 times.
- Understand the tone, purpose, and structure of the passage.
✅ 2. Identify the Central Idea
- Ask: What is the passage really about?
- Focus on what the author is trying to say, not the examples or digressions.
✅ 3. Note Down Key Points
- Make a rough list of the main arguments.
- Ignore data, quotations, and minor examples.
✅ 4. Rewrite in Your Own Words
- Do not copy entire sentences from the original.
- Use synonyms, simplified sentence structures, and active voice.
✅ 5. Preserve the Author's Tone
- If the tone is reflective or critical, maintain that in your writing.
- Avoid being overly casual, emotional, or humorous.
✅ 6. Respect the Word Limit
- Keep your precis to one-third of the original passage’s length.
- Going over or under can cost marks.
✅ 7. Write a Relevant Title
- Your title should be short (4–8 words) and reflect the main idea.
- Avoid vague titles like Life Today or Technology.
✅ 8. Proofread Carefully
- Review grammar, sentence structure, punctuation, and flow.
📜 Full Original Passage (Word Count: 300)
The modern age is an era of speed and competition. In this fast-paced world, people have little time for rest, reflection, or even meaningful relationships. The demand for efficiency has made life mechanical. Every individual is running a race, often without knowing the purpose or destination. Social media and digital devices, which were meant to connect people, have ironically created distances. Virtual connections have replaced physical ones, and genuine conversations are becoming rare. While technology has brought ease and comfort, it has also resulted in mental fatigue, isolation, and loss of emotional depth. People now measure success in terms of material gains, not human values. The age-old principles of kindness, patience, and empathy are being replaced by urgency, selfishness, and impatience. Children no longer play in parks; they are busy with screens. Adults are consumed by careers and financial pressures. The elderly, once considered the guardians of wisdom, now often feel neglected and irrelevant. It is essential to pause and ask ourselves whether this path leads to true happiness. In chasing progress, we might be losing our essence as humans. The need of the hour is to balance material advancement with emotional and spiritual well-being. If we continue on this path without reflection, we may achieve everything—and yet feel empty within.
✍️ Solved CSS Precis Example
Title: The Price of Progress
Word Count: 100 (One-third of original)
Precis:
The modern world, driven by speed and efficiency, has made life mechanical and emotionally distant. Social media and technology, instead of fostering real connections, have increased isolation and mental exhaustion. Success is now measured by material wealth, not human values. Emotional traits like empathy and patience are being replaced by urgency and self-interest. Children are addicted to screens, adults are career-driven, and the elderly feel abandoned. While progress offers comfort, it comes at the cost of emotional and spiritual well-being. Without balancing modernity with humanity, society risks achieving everything yet losing its true essence.
❌ Common Mistakes in CSS Precis Writing
Even strong English writers make these errors. Avoid them at all costs:
- Copy-pasting phrases from the original passage
- Including unnecessary details or examples
- Writing long, complex sentences that confuse meaning
- Adding personal opinions or criticism
- Using casual or emotional language
- Failing to write a clear and relevant title
- Ignoring the one-third length requirement
- Changing the tense or tone of the original
🧠 Expert Tips from CSS Toppers
CSS high-scorers recommend these strategies:
- Practice precis writing with articles from Dawn and The Economist
- Build a list of transition words (however, therefore, thus, despite, etc.)
- Time yourself while practicing—15–20 minutes max per precis
- Focus on accuracy and brevity, not just "sounding good"
- Get your work checked by teachers or CSS mentors for feedback
📘 Recommended Resources for Precis Practice
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| “Exploring the World of English” by Syed Saadat Ali Shah | A must-read for CSS precis, vocabulary, and grammar. |
| Dawn Editorials | Great for practicing summary and critical reading. |
| “Precis Writing” by R.D. Syal | Classic book with exercises and sample solutions. |
| Past CSS Papers | Download from FPSC site or CSS-related forums. |
💡 Bonus: How to Practice Precis Writing Daily
✅ Read a 300-word article daily
✅ Write a precis in 100 words
✅ Set a timer: 15 minutes
✅ Review grammar and clarity
✅ Compare with the original and refine
Doing this for 30 days can dramatically improve your precision and expression.
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓How long should a CSS precis be?
Ideally, one-third of the original passage. A 300-word passage should have a 100-word precis.
❓Is the title compulsory?
Yes, it’s mandatory. A missing title can lead to marks deduction.
❓Should I copy examples from the original passage?
No. Avoid examples unless they are essential to the central idea.
❓What tense should I use in a precis?
Most precis are written in third-person, present tense, unless the passage uses a different form consistently.
📝 Final Thoughts
Mastering precis writing for the CSS exam is not just about summarizing—it's about critical thinking, clear expression, and structured communication. These skills are foundational for every civil servant. Whether you're just starting or refining your technique, follow the steps above, learn from the solved example, and practice regularly. Your improvement is guaranteed with consistent effort.
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