The word "precis" has been derived from a French word (pronounced pressee) connected with the English word precise. A precis is a summary, and precis-writing means summarising. A precis is the gist or main theme of a passage expressed in as few words as possible. No rigid rule can be set for the length of a precis, but still it may be said that precis should not contain more than a third of the number of words in the original passage.
So, practice in precis-writing is of immense value for practical life. In any position or stage of life, the ability to grasp quickly and accurately what is read or heard, and to reproduce it clearly and concisely, is of the utmost importance.
Steps involved in precis-writing:
1. First carefully read the passage several times to apprehend clearly its main theme.
2. Examine the passage in detail to get the perfect meaning of each word, phrase and sentence.
3. Supply a short title which will express the subject.
4. Select and note down the the most important points required to express the main theme.
5. Calculate the total number of words present in the passage, and accordingly note the length of the number of words that would be contained in the precis. Now, write down the first draft.
6. While writing, remember that you are to express only the gist of the passage in your own words. Add nothing, make no comment, correct no facts. The precis must be complete, self-contained, and a connected whole.
7. Revise and proofread your draft. Let the language be simple and direct.
8. Write out neatly the fair copy under the title you have chosen.
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