Business Management - Command Terms

Analyse

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 judgement 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 and contrast

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

Complete

Add missing information/data.

Construct

Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.

Contrast

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

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.

Describe

Give a detailed account.

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 and points plotted and joined in a straight line or smooth curve.

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.

Explain

Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.

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 diagram (or to complete the missing parts in a diagram).

List

Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.

Outline

Give a brief account or summary.

Recommend

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

Plot

Mark the position of points on a diagram.

Prepare

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

State

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

Suggest

Propose a solution, hypothesis, or possible answer.

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.