Command words

Set out in detail the meaning of something, with reasons. As this is more difficult than ‘describe’ or ‘list’, it can be useful to give an example to show what you mean. Stat by introducing the topic, than give the ‘how’ or ‘why’

• Explain

• Assess

• Describe

• Evaluate

Identify the main factors that apply in two or more situations and explain the similarities and differences or advantages and disadvantages

• Assess

• Describe

• Identify

• Compare

Give careful consideration to all the factors or events that apply and identify which are the most important or relevant

• Explain

• Compare

• Assess

• Evaluate

Give a clear description that includes all the relevant features. Think of it as ‘painting a picture with words’

• Explain

• Evaluate

• Identify

• Describe

Review the information then bring it together to form a conclusion. Give evidence for each of yours views or statements. Justify your choices, giving a reasons or evidence to support your opinion or view to show how you arrived at these conclusions.

• Assess

• Compare

• Evaluate

• Identify

Point out or choose the right one or give a list of the main features

• Identify

• Describe

• Explain

• Evaluate