Command words

Also called Question stems, Directive words

The verb at the start of an exam question. It tells you what kind of answer earns the marks.

What it is

Command words are the instruction verbs exam questions use: describe, explain, analyse, evaluate, compare, justify, discuss, assess, state, outline, calculate.

Each has a defined meaning in each board's specification, and they are not interchangeable.

Where it applies

Every written exam in every subject. The definitions differ slightly between boards, which is why yours is the list that matters.

How it works

Roughly, in ascending demand:

**State / name / identify** — recall, no explanation, one or two words.

**Describe** — say what something is or what happens. No reasons.

**Explain** — give reasons. "Because" belongs in the answer.

**Analyse** — break it into parts and show how they relate or affect each other.

**Compare** — similarities AND differences, in the same sentences rather than two separate lists.

**Evaluate / assess / justify / "to what extent"** — weigh evidence and reach a conclusion. A judgement is required, and an answer without one is capped.

**Discuss** — present more than one view before concluding.

The mark allocation is a second instruction: a two-mark "explain" wants two linked points, not an essay.

How to use it in your work

Circle the command word before you write. It is the most reliable single habit for gaining marks in any subject.

For "evaluate" and "to what extent", write the conclusion FIRST in your plan so everything argues towards it. Examiners' reports say every year that students describe well and never judge.

Learn your own board's list. AQA, Edexcel, OCR and WJEC all publish one free.

Where to get help

Your board's specification and its command word glossary. Your teacher will have the list for your subject.