Command Words

Question 1

Analyse

Answer 1

Separate information into components and identify their characteristics

Question 2

Apply

Answer 2

Put into effect in a recognised way

Question 3

Assess

Answer 3

Make an informed judgment

Question 4

Calculate

Answer 4

Work out the value of something

Question 5

Compare

Answer 5

Identify the similarities and differences

Question 6

Complete

Answer 6

Finish a task by adding to given information

Question 7

Consider

Answer 7

Review and respond to given information

Question 8

Define

Answer 8

Specify meaning

Question 9

Describe

Answer 9

Set out characteristics

Question 10

Develop

Answer 10

Take forward or build upon given information

Question 11

Discuss

Answer 11

Present key points about different ideas or strengths and weaknesses of an idea

Question 12

Estimate

Answer 12

Give an approximate value

Question 13

Evaluate

Answer 13

Judge from available evidence

Question 14

Examine

Answer 14

Investigate closely

Question 15

Give

Answer 15

Produce an answer from recall

Question 16

Explore

Answer 16

Investigate without preconceptions about the outcome

Question 17

Explain

Answer 17

Set out purposes or reasons

Question 18

Identify

Answer 18

Name or otherwise characterise

Question 19

Interpret

Answer 19

Translate information into recognisable form

Question 20

Justify

Answer 20

Support a case with evidence

Question 21

Outline

Answer 21

Set out main characteristics

Question 22

Select

Answer 22

(as in multiple choice questions) choose from a range of options

Question 23

State

Answer 23

Express clearly and briefly

Question 24

Suggest

Answer 24

Present a possible case/solution

Question 25

Summarise

Answer 25

Present principal points without detail