What is a Rhetorical Precis?
A rhetorical precis is a document form that has more than just summarizing the information presented but also includes critical analysis. The tone should be engaging and persuasive to engage readers with your argumentative writing style.
It uses a four-sentence paragraph structure that includes the following:
- The name of speaker/writer(s)
- Context or situation
- Main assertion
- The mode of development
- The stated and apparent purpose
- The relationship between the speaker/writer(s) and the audience
Moreover, it demonstrates your writing skills and ability by expressing thoughts in an intelligible manner. To make sure that your rhetorical precis contains the following qualities:
- Clarity: It's important that the reader can understand what an author intended to convey. To do this, use simple language and structure in your work.
- Correctness: Make sure the words you use are correct and interesting.
- Objectivity: It should be clear and simple. Don’t give your opinion.
- Coherence: Create the logical interconnection of the ideas from the original.
- Conciseness: Avoid adding irrelevant details, facts, wordy expressions, etc.
Purpose of Rhetorical Precis
In a rhetorical precis, you should summarize the passage and include only key points. The main purpose of writing a rhetorical precis is to:
- Summarize the main ideas and arguments
- Identify the strategies the author uses
- Analyze the content
- Give as much information about the written work
How to Write a Rhetorical Precis?
To write an effective precis, you should follow these steps to simplify your writing process and make it more engaging.
1. Read the Original Piece
Read the original text closely and actively. Pay attention to how it is written, what points they're trying to convey, how this document caters to its audience etc.
You can do active reading in two phases. First, make sure you understand how long the text is. You should also know where it was published and how many sections it has. Finally, make sure you know what sources are cited throughout the writing.
The second note-taking stage is when you identify the text's key ideas and responses. You should think about how well-argued its arguments are. Finally, analyzing the arguments and looking for persuasion techniques the author may have used to make their argument more effective.
2. Develop an Outline
The four-sentence structure is an effective way to organize your content. It allows you the freedom to create any kind of style while still making it understandable for readers.
3. Write an Engaging Introduction
The introduction should be captivating and attention-grabbing. It usually grabs attention with its hook statement that introduces what will follow throughout this section of the text.
A good rhetorical precis introduction contains:
- An attention-grabber hook
- A good thesis statement
- The main purpose of the composition
4. Write the Main Body Paragraphs
The body of the precis is where you present a summary and explanation of how it appeals to different aspects. This includes significant concepts from the original text in chronological order. Then, presents how they are explained through appeals such as ethos, pathos, or logos.
Information should support the thesis statement and use rhetorical devices. Each body paragraph should contain the topic sentence, explanation, and closing statement.
5. Write an Effective Conclusion
The conclusion section leads readers towards what you are trying to say in your precis. Restating key points or discussing relevant concepts directly to its content.
Avoid presenting and adding new information in this section but connect the major claim with extended concepts.
6. Proofreading and Editing
Proofreading is an integral part of the writing process, yet it's often neglected. When you've completed your work, read thoroughly. Make sure there aren't any errors before submitting them for approval from the instructor.
Rhetorical Precis Examples
A good way to start when you're writing it for the first time is by looking at a few examples. These will give you an understanding of how to write it like experts.
Our professional writers will compile some great examples for your help. Take a look, get an idea, and write a good one.
Rhetorical Precis Template
Letter from Birmingham Jail Rhetorical Precis
The Ugly Truth About Beauty Rhetorical Precis
Sentence Rhetorical Precis
Rhetorical Precis Format
With this detailed guide, you must have learned how to write a high-quality precis in no time. But if you still find it hard, you can easily consult a reliable writing service for your help.
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