Business command terms

apply

use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given problem or issue

Define

Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept, or physical quantity

describe

Give a detailed account

outline

give a brief account or summary

state

Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation

analyse

breakdown in order to bring out the essential elements or structure

comment

give a judgement based on a given statement or result of a calculation

demonstrate

make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical application

distinguish

make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items

explain

give a detailed account including reasons or causes

interpret

use knowledge and understanding to recognize trends and draw conclusions from given information

suggest

propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer

compare

give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout

compare and contrast

give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of

discuss

offer a considered and balanced review that include a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses; opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence

contrast

give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout

evaluate

make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations

examine

consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships of the issue

justify

give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion

recommend

present an advisable course of action with appropriate supporting evidence/reason in relation to a given situation, problem or issue

to what extent

consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound argument

annotate

add brief notes to a diagram or graph

calculate

obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working

complete

add missing information/data

construct

display information in a diagrammatic or logical form

determine

obtain the only possible answer

draw

represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. diagrams should be drawn by scale. graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight or smooth curve

identify

provide an answer from a number of possibilities

label

add labels to a diagram

plot

mark the position of points on a diagram

prepare

put given data or information from a stimulus/source into a suitable format