Writing a Précis: Key Concepts and Techniques

A short, accurate, and concise representation of the main points and tone of a longer text, written in your own words.

A précis should capture the original author's voice and opinions, without introducing your own interpretations or comments.

A précis should be written in clear and concise sentences, free of rambling or unnecessary details.

A précis should be organized logically, with smooth transitions between ideas, and follow the order of the original text.

A précis must accurately present the key points and information from the original text, avoiding unnecessary information or opinions not found in the source.

A préci writer should use their own words to rephrase the ideas of the original text, avoiding direct copying of sentences.

A précis should have a clear and concise title that accurately reflects the main idea of the passage it summarizes.

A précis should be written in reported speech, using appropriate verbs of reporting (e.g., 'states', 'argues', 'claims') when summarizing the author's ideas.

A concise summary of a longer text, focusing on the main points and arguments, and written in the author's own words.

The essential idea or concept that is being presented in the text.

Including all important points from the original passage in your précis, so the reader can understand the essence of the original.

Using clear, concise, and precise language in your précis, without being wordy or repetitive.

Writing the précis in the third person (using 'he', 'she', 'it', or 'they') instead of the first person ('I' or 'we').

Writing in an indirect style, which means summarizing the text's ideas without using direct quotes.

Using the past tense when discussing historical events or referring to actions that have already occurred.

Using official titles or designations instead of names to maintain objectivity and clarity.

Earthquakes are a significant threat to humanity, affecting all people regardless of their nationality or political beliefs.

The destructive force of an earthquake surpasses any human-made weapon.

Earthquakes strike without warning, transforming modern cities into rubble and devastation.

Earthquakes cause widespread damage, affecting plains, seas, and mountains.

The Lisbon earthquake of 1755 resulted in the death of 450 people.

The Peru earthquake of 1970 claimed the lives of 50,000 people.

The 1968 Alaska earthquake shifted the landmass by 80 feet into the Pacific Ocean.

While we cannot control earthquakes, scientists can predict their likely origin to help save lives and protect property.

The destructive power of earthquakes is unmatched by human-made forces, causing widespread damage and even reshaping the landscape.

Earthquakes strike unpredictably, making it challenging to prepare for their impact. Their destructive force is equally devastating to modern cities and primitive villages.

The devastation caused by earthquakes is multifaceted, including structural collapse, fires, and disruptions to infrastructure.

The enormity of earthquake forces challenges man's efforts to completely control them. Scientific focus is on predicting their occurrence and mitigating their damage.

Earthquakes can trigger catastrophic events like tsunamis and avalanches, further amplifying their destructive potential.

The devastating effects of earthquakes have been documented throughout history, resulting in immense loss of life and property.

Earthquakes can move entire continents, showcasing the immense forces at play.

The goal of earthquake research is to pinpoint locations where earthquakes are likely to occur, allowing for preemptive measures to minimize damage and save lives.

Earthquakes happen unpredictably, striking without warning.

Earthquakes impact a wide range of environments, from mountainous terrain to the ocean floor.

The emotion of fear is linked to earlier stages of animal evolution, originating before mammals.

The love a mother has for her offspring, known as filial emotion, evolved among early mammals.

Emotions can be used as strategies to manipulate or protect oneself, like feigning distress to avoid punishment.

Disgust is specifically triggered by potential threats to the body's health or immune system.

Memories associated with disgust are stronger than other memories, causing an immediate reaction to unpleasant objects or situations.

Home is a safe haven for the young and inexperienced who need guidance to navigate the complexities of life.

Home provides basic education and instills emotional bonds that last a lifetime, making it a foundation for future growth.

Similar to a home, a university provides shelter, education, and support to students, nurturing their intellectual and personal growth.

Teaching is a noble profession that involves shaping the character of young minds.

A teacher's role extends beyond intellectual development to encompass moral values and good citizenship.

Teachers, by their very nature, maintain a youthful spirit despite their age, finding rejuvenation in the company of young learners.

Teachers strive to cultivate good habits in their students, leading by example with their own virtuous life.

The joy and innocence of children help teachers overcome personal challenges and maintain a positive spirit.