Command Words

Question 1

Analyse

Answer 1

discuss the pros
and cons of a topic or argument
and make reasoned comment.

Question 2

Assess

Answer 2

Offer a reasoned judgement of

the standard/quality of situation

Question 3

Compare

Answer 3

Identify similarities and

differences

Question 4

Demonstrate

Answer 4

Show in an explicit way

Question 5

Define

Answer 5

State or describe the nature,

scope or meaning

Question 6

Describe

Answer 6

Give an account, including all the
relevant characteristics, qualities,
or events

Question 7

Determine

Answer 7

Find out, decide, eg what is

relevant.

Question 8

Discuss

Answer 8

Give an account that addresses a

range of ideas and arguments

Question 9

Evaluate

Answer 9

Make a qualitative judgement
taking into account different
factors and using available
knowledge/experience/evidence

Question 10

Explain

Answer 10

To give account of the purposes

or reasons

Question 11

Identify

Answer 11

Recognize, list, name or

otherwise characterize

Question 12

State

Answer 12

Express in precise terms, express

in unequivocal terms

Question 13

Suggest

Answer 13

Give possible alternatives,
produce an idea, put forward, eg
an idea or plan, for consideration