We have compiled a comprehensive list of command words to help you answer exam style questions even better.
Calculate: Work out your answer using the numbers in the question. Read the question carefully for information on equations, units and/or significant figure.
Comment on: Look at data or information and decide what it shows.
Compare: Give similarities and/or differences between two (or more) things. Your answer must relate to both (or all) things mentioned in the question.
Compare and contrast: Give similarities and differences between two (or more) things. Your answer must relate to both (or all) things mentioned in the question.
Complete: Add words to a statement or values to a table or diagram.
Deduce: Come to a decision based on the information in the question.
Define: Give the meaning of the term(s) in the question.
Describe: State facts, information, events or processes and link them in a logical order.
Determine: Give a numerical answer from the information in the question.
Devise: Write down a method or plan.
Estimate: Find a rough number or amount from the information given in the question.
Evaluate: Make a judgement, considering arguments and/or evidence for and against.
Explain: Say how or why something happens; 'because' will be an important part of your answer.
Give: Provide the requested information from memory. You don't need to explain your answer.
Identify: Name or otherwise characterise.
Justify: Support with evidence.
Label: Provide appropriate names on a diagram/graph/table.
Name: Provide the requested information from memory. You don't need to explain your answer.
Plan: Write down a method using the details provided in the question.
Predict: Say what you think will happen based on what you know.
Reason: Say why something happens or is the case.
State: Provide the requested information from memory. You don't need to explain your answer.
State and explain: Make a point and link ideas to justify that point.
Suggest: Provide the requested information by applying your knowledge and understanding to the question.
On sAInaptic, we help students by reminding them of what the command word means using a nifty little 'info' button as they practice.
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