EXPANSION OF PASSAGES

This exercise is the exact opposite of Precis-writing. In Precis-writing we have to compress; and
in these exercises we have to expand. A sentence, or a short passage, has to be enlarged into a
paragraph by the fuller and more elaborate expression of its meaning, or by adding illustrations,
details or proofs to a simple statement. Such exercise practically amounts to the writing of
miniature essays on the subject of the original sentence or passage. No strict rule can be laid
down for the length of the expansion; it must not be too short, or it will scarcely be an expansion,
or so long as to become an essay. On the average, eighty to one hundred words should be aimed
at.

METHOD OF PROCEDURE
1. Carefully read the original sentence or passage until you feel that you clearly understand
its meaning. (It is a good practice to try to express the main idea in a word or a phrase;
e.g., the real subject of the second specimen is, "Pride in One's Work.")
2. Having grasped the subject and meaning of the passage, proceed to expand it by adding
details, illustrations, proofs, examples etc., until it is a tiny essay only long enough to
make a paragraph.
3. The expansion must contain all that was in the original passage
4. The sentence for expansion is a conclusion or finished product: and it is your work to
trace the steps by which this thought has been arrived at.
5. If it is a metaphor, explain its full meaning in plain language, and give reasons to support
it.
6. Correct all mistakes in spelling, grammar and punctuation.

Example:

-1A great deal of talent is lost in the world for the want of a little courage.

EXPANSION
SELF-CONFIDENCE
Timidity and self-distrust are almost as great faults as conceit and over-confidence. There are
many people who have real talent in different lines, and yet who never accomplish anything,
because they are afraid to make the first venture; and in this way good and useful things are lost
to the world. A reasonable amount of confidence in one's own powers is necessary for success.

-2Peace hath her victories No less renowned than war.

EXPANSION
THE VICTORIES OF PEACE
The word victory is generally associated in our minds with war, and calls up visions of battles,
bloodshed, and conquest by force : and we think of war as a glorious thing because of its famous
victories and splendid triumphs. But when we think of the achievements of great men statesmen, scholars, social reformers, scientists, philanthropists, explorers, discoverers and
honest workers - for the betterment of the human race and the progress and civilization of the
world, we realize that the victories of peace are even more glorious than the victories of war.