Exam command words

Question 1

Calculate

Answer 1

You should use numbers given in the question to work out the answer. You should show your working.

Question 2

Choose

Answer 2

You should pick from a range of options.

Question 3

Compare

Answer 3

You should describe the similarities and/or differences between things. You should not just write about one of them.

Question 4

Complete

Answer 4

You should write your answer in the space provided. This might be on a diagram, spaces in a sentence, or in a table.

Question 5

Define

Answer 5

You should specify the meaning of something.

Question 6

Describe

Answer 6

You are being asked to recall some facts, events, or processes in an accurate way. Or you are being asked to state what you see, e.g. the shape of a graph. You should include values in your answer.

Question 7

Design

Answer 7

You should set out how something will be done.

Question 8

Determine

Answer 8

You should use data or information you have been given to construct an answer.

Question 9

Draw

Answer 9

You need to produce, or add to a diagram.

Question 10

Estimate

Answer 10

You should assign an approximate value.

Question 11

Evaluate

Answer 11

You should use the information provided, as well as your own knowledge and understanding, to suggest evidence for and against an idea or concept. You will usually be required to provide your own opinion too.

Question 12

Explain

Answer 12

You should make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening. You should include connectives in your answer.

Question 13

Give

Answer 13

You should provide a short answer. This does not require a description or an explanation.

Question 14

Identify

Answer 14

You should name or otherwise indicate an object or variable.

Question 15

Justify

Answer 15

You need to use evidence from the information provided to support an answer, this may be a given statement or an answer of your creation.

Question 16

Label

Answer 16

You should provide appropriate names on a diagram.

Question 17

Measure

Answer 17

You should find an item of data for a given quantity or variable.

Question 18

Name

Answer 18

You should provide a short answer. This does not require a description or an explanation. Often, these questions can be answered with a single word, phrase, or sentence.

Question 19

Plan

Answer 19

You should write a method.

Question 20

Plot

Answer 20

You should mark on a graph using the data you have been provided.

Question 21

Predict

Answer 21

You should suggest a possible, and probable outcome.

Question 22

Show

Answer 22

You should provide structured evidence, and use this to reach a conclusion.

Question 23

Sketch

Answer 23

You need to draw approximately.

Question 24

Suggest

Answer 24

You will need to apply your own knowledge and understanding to a new situation. It may require description and/or explanation.

Question 25

Use

Answer 25

You must use information given in the question. If the given information is not used, you will not be awarded any marks. In some cases, you may also be asked to use your own knowledge and understanding.

Question 26

Write

Answer 26

You should provide a short answer. This does not require a description or an explanation.