Academic Testing Vocabulary

Front

To examine something in detail in order to understand it

Back

Analyze

Front

To figure something out by using evidence and reasoning; “reading between the lines”

Back

Inference/Infer

Front

To briefly share the main points of something

Back

summarize

Front

Compare means to note the similarities between things (how two or more things are alike)

Back

compare

Front

to note the differences

Back

contrast

Front

to convince someone to think or act in a specific way

Back

Persuade/Argue/Convince

Front

To present a clear, detailed picture of something. To note details about something.

Back

describe

Front

To explain the meaning of something; to present something in understandable terms

Back

interpret

Front

To make something clear by using description, relevant facts, or ideas

Back

explain

Front

To make an objective judgment about a topic, relying more on informed sources than your own opinion

Back

evaluate