Academic Command Verbs and Definitions

Flashcards testing knowledge of common academic command verbs and their specific meanings.

What does the command verb 'Analyse' require you to do?

Identify components and the relationship between them. Draw out and relate implications

What does the command verb 'Apply' mean?

Use, utilise, employ in a particular situation

What does the command verb 'Assess' mean?

Make a judgement of value, quality, outcomes, results or size

What does the command verb 'Compare' mean?

Show how things are similar or different.

What does the command verb 'Contrast' mean?

Show how things are different or opposite

What does 'Critically (analyse/evaluate)' require?

Add a degree or level of accuracy depth, knowledge and understanding, logic, questioning, reflection and quality to (analyse/evaluate).

What does the command verb 'Define' mean?

State meaning and identify essential qualities.

What does the command verb 'Describe' mean?

Provide characteristics and features.

What does the command verb 'Evaluate' mean?

Make a judgement based on criteria. Determine the value of.

What does the command verb 'Explain' require?

Relate cause and effect. Make the relationships between things evident. Provide why and/or how.

What does the command verb 'Extrapolate' mean?

Infer from what is known

What does the command verb 'Identify' mean?

Recognise and name

What does the command verb 'Justify' mean?

Support an argument or conclusion

What does the command verb 'Outline' mean?

Sketch in general terms; indicate the main features of

What does the command verb 'Predict' mean?

Suggest what may happen based on available information

What does the command verb 'Synthesise' mean?

Putting together various elements to make a whole