Writing the Rhetorical Precis

What is a Rhetorical Précis? A rhetorical precis differs from a summary in that it is a less neutral, more analytical condensation of both the content and the method of the original text. If you think of a summary as primarily a brief representation of what a text says, then you might think of a rhetorical precis as a brief representation of what a text both says and does.

The Rhetorical Precis The precis is a highly structured four sentence paragraph that records the essential elements of a unit of spoken or written discourse. Each of the four sentences requires specific information.

Four sentences in which the writer/student identifies: The main argument How the author develops the main claims (structures and patterns of organization) Author’s purpose Audience & tone

The Rhetorical Precis Format Sentence 1 In a single coherent sentence give the following: Name of the author, title of the work, source and date (in parentheses); A rhetorically accurate verb such as “asserts,” “argues,” “refutes,” “proves,” or “explains.” A that clause containing the major claim (thesis statement) of the work. THE WHAT

The Rhetorical Precis Format Sentence 2 In a single coherent sentence give an explanation of how the writer develops and supports the major claim (thesis statement). THE HOW

The Rhetorical Precis Format Sentence 3 In a single coherent sentence give a statement of the author’s purpose, followed by an “in order to” phrase. THE WHY

The Rhetorical Precis Format Sentence 4 In a single coherent sentence give a description of the intended audience and/or the relationship the author establishes with the audience. TO OR FOR WHOM