The Prcis (pronounced pray-see)

Use of the Prcis

This technique of writing can be used in several areas - viz.
Essay Preparation
Note-Taking
Document Based Questions
Research Papers
It will take you some time to master the art of writing the prcis. However don't give up; this
technique is invaluable as you prepare to write a Historical Essay and Document-Based Questions.
Definition: A prcis is a clear, compact logical summary of a passage. It preserves only the essential
or important ideas of the original. It is a kind of shorthand in your study of history.
Usage: Use of the prcis increases skills in reading and in precision and economy of expression. The
techniques of the prcis are apparent in the following:
A. Newspaper headline
B. Opening paragraph of newspaper story, lecture, notes and lots more.
Requirements:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Concentration and alertness

Sensitivity to word meanings and the author's viewpoint.
Ability to distinguish between major and minor points.
A sense of proportion and emphasis.

STEPS IN READING A PASSAGE FOR THE PRCIS.

(Also useful for note-making)

1. Read the whole passage attentively.

2. Begin to recognize the author's tone and viewpoint.
3. Re-read the passage if necessary for clear comprehension (understanding) of ideas.
4. Note and disregard parts of the author's work that are introductory.
5. Underline key phrases, make notes in the margin.
6. Observe the emphasis or approach used by the author.
7. Assume the importance of ideas that the author develops with the use of supporting
facts and examples.
8. Do not use the specific examples, figures of speech or quotations cited by the author in developing
your prcis.
9. When you are selecting ideas from a passage, ask yourself the
following question: If this idea were omitted, would the fundamental
meaning of the passage be changed?

STEPS IN WRITING A PRCIS.

1. Try to limit your prcis to no more than 1/3 the length of the original passage.
2. Use clear, factual expressions, do not attempt to copy the style of the original source.
3. Do not introduce ideas of your own. Do not criticize or change the author's ideas. THIS IS NOT
THE FORUM FOR THAT!

4.Here is a central rule:

Do not copy a single sentence from the article! You may use
key words and phrases only when you are expressing ideas which are
technically precise or when you feel comfortable using the writer's
own words, i.e., you understand exactly he or she means, and there
is really no better way to express the concept.
FORMAT OF A PRCIS (TO BE FOLLOWED IN THE UNIVERSITY EXAM)
Suggested Titles:( Think of three titles and write them)
1.
2.
3.
Rough Draft:( Write the important points from the given passage)
1.
2.
3.
4.
and so on as many as you think are important. When you are selecting ideas from a passage, ask
yourself the following question: If this idea were omitted, would the fundamental meaning of the
passage be changed?
Title:( Write one title you now think best suits the passage and underline it. Look at the example
given below. Don't write the side heading 'Title'. Just write the title)
How to Write a Prcis
Fair Draft
Put the points written in the rough draft into a paragraph.

A QUICK RECAP OF THE WRITING OF A PRCIS.

STEP #1

Read the given passage

and make sure that you
understand it.
STEP #2

Think of three possible titles

STEP #3

Select the most important points

contained in the article.
Underline or highlight those points.
STEP #4

Collect your key points in a

rough draft. Then check to see
that it contains the main ideas
of the passage.

STEP #5

Check the draft for expression

errors, repetition or vague phrasing;
then write a smoother final draft.