Physics Command Terms

Analyze

Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure.

Annotate

Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.

Apply

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

Calculate

Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working.

Comment

Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.

Compare

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

Compare & Contrast

Give an account of similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.

Construct

Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.

Deduce

Reach a conclusion from the information given.

Define

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

Demonstrate

Make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical application.

Derive

Manipulate a mathematical relationship to give a new equation or relationship.

Describe

Give a detailed account.

Design

Produce a plan, simulation or model.

Determine

Obtain the only possible answer.

Discuss

Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

Distinguish

Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.

Draw

Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted and joined in a straight line or smooth curve.

Estimate

Obtain an approximate value.

Evaluate

Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.

Explain

Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.

Formulate

Express precisely and systematically the relevant concept(s) or argument(s).

Give/State/Write Down

Give a specific name, value, or other brief answer without explanation or calculation. (Write down: obtain the answer(s), usually by extracting information. Little or no calculation is required. Working does not need to be shown.)

Hence

Use the preceding work to obtain the required result.

Hence or Otherwise

It is suggested that the preceding work is used, but other methods could also receive credit.

Identify

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities.

Justify

Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.

Label

Add labels to a given diagram.

List

Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.

Measure

Obtain a value for a quantity.

Outline

Give a brief account or summary.

Plot

Mark the position of points on a diagram.

Predict

Give an expected result.

Show

Give the steps in a calculation or derivation.

Show That

Obtain the required result (possibly using information given) without the formality of proof. “Show that” questions do not generally require the use of a calculator.

Sketch

Represent by means of a diagram or graph (labeled as appropriate). The sketch should give a general idea of the required shape or relationship, and should include relevant features.

Solve

Obtain the answer(s) using algebraic and/or numerical and/or graphical methods.

Suggest

Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer.