Précis

A précis is a summary. That is what the dictionary tells us. But a précis is more
than a summary.
Both are the condensed version of a text, they give the sum and the
substance. But a précis is different from a summary in at least three respects.
These are:
i. A précis is shorter than a summary. It is more precise. A summary
gives all the points in the text; a précis gives the essential points.
It gives the gist. A précis is usually one-third of the original.
 ii. It has a title.
 iii. It is written in the words of the précis writer. Whereas a summary
 can be both oral and written, a précis is always written.
Thus one can say that although they have similarities, a précis is essentially different
from a summary
Usefulness:
 Most people read carelessly. Précis teaches one to
read with care and comprehension. The first
requirement is clear understanding.

 Ability to reproduce the ideas. It is an exercise both

in comprehension and effective writing.
Qualities of a good précis:

Three C’s

 Completeness (accurate, nothing important left out)

 Clarity (easily understandable and effective)
 Conciseness (sum and substance, neither more nor
less)
Steps to Précis – writing:

1. Reading Carefully
2. Putting down the main theme in a sentence or phrase / Title
3. Further reading , so that no point is missed
4. Separating the necessary parts from the unnecessary ones of the passage
5. Preparing the first draft
6. Comparing the first draft with the original passage
7. Checking the length of précis
8. Revising the draft
9. Checking sentence structure, grammar, spelling, punctuation etc.
10. Preparing the final draft
 Make Précis and give suitable Title.

Trees give shade for the benefit of others, and while they themselves
stand in the sun and endure the scorching heat, they produce the fruit of
which others profit. The character of good men is like that of trees.
What is the use of this perishable body if no use is made of it for the
benefit of mankind? Sandalwood, the more it is rubbed, the more scent
does it yield. Sugarcane, the more it is peeled and cut up into pieces,
the more juice does it produce. The men who are noble at heart do not
lose their qualities even in losing their lives. What matters whether men
praise them or not? What difference does it make whether they die at
this moment or whether lives are prolonged? Happen what may, those
who tread in the right path will not set foot in any other. Life itself is
unprofitable to a man who does live for others. To live for the mere
sake of living one’s life is to live the life of dog and crows. Those who
lay down their lives for the sake of others will assuredly dwell forever
in a world of bliss.
 Good men live for others

The character of good men is like that of trees. They live for
others and do not lose their qualities even in losing their lives.
They always follow the right path. Praise is immaterial to them.
To live for one’s own sake is to lead the life of beasts. Only those
who lay down their lives for others will live forever in a world of
bliss.

I acknowledge the sources I use with gratitude.