Question Command Words

Question 1

Account

Answer 1

Give reasons for

Question 2

Assess

Answer 2

Make an informed judgement based on evidence

Question 3

Calculate

Answer 3

Work out a numerical answer. In general, working should be shown, especially where two or more steps are involved.

Question 4

Compare

Answer 4

Describe both similarities and differences between things. Two separate descriptions do not make a comparison

Question 5

Contrast

Answer 5

Describe differences between two things

Question 6

Define

Answer 6

State the precise meaning of a term, idea or concept

Question 7

Describe

Answer 7

State in words the key characteristics (features) and give factual details (data/evidence)

Question 8

Discuss

Answer 8

Present points for and against, or present different viewpoints

Question 9

Draw

Answer 9

Make a sketch or simple freehand drawing. May be used with labels

Question 10

Evaluate

Answer 10

Make a judgement from available evidence

Question 11

Examine

Answer 11

Investigate closely (describe, explain, offer evidence and comment

Question 12

Explain

Answer 12

Set out reasons, causes or purposes

Question 13

Give

Answer 13

Provide ans answer from, or in relation to, a resource

Question 14

Give the meaning of

Answer 14

State the definition of a term, idea or concept

Question 15

Give reasons

Answer 15

Provide points of explanations

Question 16

How

Answer 16

Describe in what way(s) or by what means

Question 17

How far do you agree

Answer 17

Make an informed judgement, based on evidence

Question 18

Identify

Answer 18

Name or select one or more characteristics

Question 19

Label

Answer 19

Add specific names or details to a diagram, graph or map

Question 20

Name

Answer 20

Provide the appropriate name or term

Question 21

Outline

Answer 21

Set out the main characteristics restricted to giving essentials, without supporting details

Question 22

State

Answer 22

Give a concise answer expressed in clear terms

Question 23

Suggest

Answer 23

Apply knowledge and understanding to an unfamiliar situation where there is no single correct answer

Question 24

To what extent

Answer 24

Form and express a judgement after examining evidence

Question 25

What

Answer 25

Provide specific information

Question 26

Which

Answer 26

Provide specific information