Key Exam Terms

Question 1

Analyse

Answer 1

Thoroughly deconstruct the essay subject and critically examine each part.

Question 2

Evaluate

Answer 2

Provide your opinion or verdict, but include both sides of the debate.

Question 3

Justify

Answer 3

You need to explain the basis of your argument.

Question 4

Critically Evaluate

Answer 4

Provide your opinion on whether an argument or research findings are accurate.

Question 5

Review

Answer 5

Complete a critical examination on a subject or argument.

Question 6

Assess

Answer 6

Make an informed judgement about the value, strengths and weaknesses of an argument.

Question 7

Discuss

Answer 7

Takes into account all aspects of the debate concerning a research topic or argument.

Question 8

Examine

Answer 8

Establish the key facts and important issues concerning the topic or argument.

Question 9

To what extent

Answer 9

How far you agree with a proposition.

Question 10

Define

Answer 10

Outline the precise meaning of the subject of the question.

Question 11

Demonstrate

Answer 11

Use evidence, examples and logical arguments to show that the argument is valid.

Question 12

Describe

Answer 12

Provide thorough insight into the main characteristics of a research subject.

Question 13

Elaborate

Answer 13

Provide a lot of detail and information on the argument.

Question 14

Explain

Answer 14

Clarify the topic.

Question 15

Explore

Answer 15

Adopt a questioning approach and explore.

Question 16

Identify

Answer 16

Point out and describe the main ideas.

Question 17

Illustrate

Answer 17

Use many examples such as tables, figures or graphs.

Question 18

Outline

Answer 18

Present an organised description.

Question 19

Summarise

Answer 19

Write down the main points or facts.

Question 20

Clarify

Answer 20

Literally provide clarification.

Question 21

Compare

Answer 21

Identify similarities between two subjects.

Question 22

Contrast

Answer 22

Identify differences between two subjects.