Command terms

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It is crucial to have a good understanding of these command terms so you can know exactly how to answer the questions posed

  • define - give the precise meaning of a word, phrase or physical quantity

  • draw - represent by means of pencil lines

*note that you are most often expected to also label when you draw, unless specifically told not to

  • label - add labels to a diagram

  • list - give a sequence of names or other brief answers with no explanation

  • measure - find the value of a quantity

  • state - give a specific name, value or another brief answer without explanation or calculation

  • annotate - add brief notes to a diagram or graph

  • apply - use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in a new situation

  • calculate - find a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working (unless instructed not to do so)

  • describe - give a detailed account

  • distinguish - give the differences between two or more different items

  • estimate - find an approximate value for an unknown quantity

  • identify - find an answer from a given number of possibilities

  • outline - give a brief account or summary

  • analyse - interpret data to reach conclusions

  • comment - give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation

  • compare - give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items, referring to both (all) of them throughout

  • construct - represent or develop in graphical form

  • deduce - reach a conclusion from the information given

  • derive - manipulate a mathematical relationship(s) to give a new equation or relationship

  • design - produce a plan, simulation or model

  • determine - find the only possible answer

  • discuss - give an account including, where possible, a range of arguments for and against the relative importance of various factors, or comparisons of alternative hypotheses

  • evaluate - assess the implications and limitations

  • explain

give a detailed account of causes, reasons or mechanisms

  • predict - give an expected result

  • show - give the steps in a calculation or derivation

  • sketch - represent by means of a graph showing a line and labelled but unscaled axes but with important features clearly indicated

  • solve - obtain an answer using algebraic and/or numerical methods

  • suggest - propose a hypothesis or other possible answer