Command words

Question 1

Describe

Answer 1

Say what you see. Give an account in words - no need for reasons

Question 2

Explain.., Why.., Suggest reasons for…

Answer 2

Give reasons.
Set out the causes and/or the factors which influence it
Usually requires an understanding of processes and is a higher-level skill than description.

Question 3

Outline/summarise

Answer 3

Give a brief summary or account of relevant information

Question 4

Analyse

Answer 4

Go into detail.

Break down a topic, or issue, into its main elements in order to provide an in-depth account & show understanding

Question 5

Compare

Answer 5

What are the similarities and differences?

Question 6

Contrast

Answer 6

What are the differences?

Question 7

Calculate

Answer 7

Use numbers given to work out the value of something

Question 8

Define

Answer 8

Give the meaning of something. Usually a low mark value in these questions

Question 9

Evaluate

Answer 9

Consider both sides - pros and cons and come up with a conclusion

Question 10

Justify

Answer 10

Give reasons and evidence for your view. A range of alternative views/idea should be discussed and discounted, with positives & negatives

Question 11

To what extent

Answer 11

Judge the importance or success of something - has it worked or not

Question 12

Argue

Answer 12

Present a case with evidence or reasons

Question 13

Assess

Answer 13

Weigh up / give an informed judgement

Question 14

Comment on

Answer 14

Give your opinion on something

Question 15

Debate

Answer 15

Give different perspectives

Question 16

Annotate

Answer 16

Add to a diagram, image or graphic a number of words that describe and/or explain features, rather than just identify them (which is labelling)

Question 17

Critically

Answer 17

Often occurs before ‘Assess’ or ‘Evaluate’ inviting an examination of an issue from the point of view of a critic with a particular focus on the strengths and weaknesses of the points of view being expressed.

Question 18

Determine

Answer 18

Use given data or information to obtain and answer.