Precis Learning Portal
Writing High Scoring Precis
Writing a précis is a valuable exercise in attentive reading and precise writing. First, you must fully understand what you have read. Then, you should present that understanding as effectively as you can.
A précis is a short summary of a longer piece of writing written in your own words. It is a condensed form of the main idea of the original text. It is generally about one-third, or even one-fourth, the length of the original.
A précis is different from a paraphrase of the original text. It does not simply restate the same content in different or simpler words. In paraphrasing, the version may be as long as the original, but a précis is always shorter than a paraphrase.
A précis does not include any personal comments or opinions. It avoids details, examples, and illustrations. Its language is free from unnecessary words, and decorative style weakens its purpose. It should be the briefest possible account of what you have read.