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