The "Precis" book review template
Sometimes being incorrect, or even wrong, can be useful. For example, I’m pretty sure I’m using the word “precis” incorrectly here. I lack a better word. Invoking the Humpty Dumpty principle, let’s proceed.
The Precís template
Definition of Precis: A concise summary of a book, article, or other text; an abstract.
With the above definition, this template is probably not really a precis, it doesn’t fit the definition very well. The Main Learning template fits the definition of precis somewhat better.
The goal of the Precis review is extracting a limit amount of specific, high impact, actionable material from the reading, as expressed a few bullet points. The points may define concrete actions in the sense of “Do x, y, and z,” or may illustrate a new, useful perspective or mindset shift.
Here’s a great template for a short book review:
- Lede: 1 Sentence. Hook the reader.
- Inciting incident: 1-3 sentences. Draw the reader into the story.
- Transition to main points: 1 sentence.
- Main points: 1-3 bullets. Focus on actionable material.
- Final summary: 1-3 sentence. Contextualize points.
- Recommendation: 1-3 sentences.
Here’s an example, The Phoenix Project
As the Precis spans the entire book, the main points may not be as immediately actionable as a Main Learning where the focus is on immediate execution.
Similar to the main learning, the Precis template is designed for my own personal use. Both templates are a way for me to record my thoughts at a particular moment in time. There is no claim that either is useful for others.