Key terms

ANALYSE

Break an issue down into its component parts; discuss them and show how they interrelate.

ARGUE

Make a case, based on appropriate evidence and logically structured, for and/or against some given point of view.

ASSESS

Estimate the value or importance of something, paying attention to positive and/or negative aspects.

COMPARE

Look for similarities and differences between.

CONTRAST

Set in opposition in order to bring out differences.

CRITICISE

Give your judgement about the merit of theories or opinions or about the truth of facts, and back your judgement by a discussion of the evidence.

DEFINE

Set down the precise meaning of the word or phrase, giving sufficient detail so as to distinguish it.

DESCRIBE

Give a detailed or graphic account.

DISCUSS

Investigate or examine by argument; sift and debate giving reasons for and against.

EXPLAIN

Tell how things work or how they came to be the way they are.

IDENTIFY

Pick out what you regard as the key features of something, perhaps making clear the criteria you use in doing so.

ILLUSTRATE

Use a figure or diagram to explain or clarify, or make it clear by the use of concrete examples.

JUSTIFY

Express valid reasons for accepting a particular interpretation or conclusion.

OUTLINE

Indicate the main features of a topic or sequence of events, possibly setting them within a clear structure or framework to show how they interrelate.

PROVE

Demonstrate or establish the truth or accuracy, giving evidence or a logical sequence of statements from evidence to conclusion.

RELATE

Explain how things are connected to each other and to what extent they are alike or affect each other.

REVIEW

To make a survey of, examining the subject critically.

STATE

Present in brief, clear form the main points.

SUMMARISE

Give a concise account of the chief points or substance of the matter, omitting details and examples.

TRACE

Follow the development or history of a topic from some point of origin.