AP World History Command Words

Account for

Explain a particular event or outcome: present a reasoned case for the existence of something

Analyze

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

Assess

Measure and judge the merits and quality of an argument or concept

Compare

Provide a description or explanation of similarities and/or differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (or all) of them throughout.

Compare & contrast

Describe two (or more) situations and present the similarities and differences between them, referring to both/all of them throughout. Difference is NOT something that is missing in one or more of the sources!

Contrast

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

Define

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

Describe

Provide the relevant characteristics of a specified topic.

Discuss/consider

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

Evaluate

Judge or determine the significance or importance of information, or the quality or accuracy of a claim.

Identify and discuss the convincing aspects of the argument, as well as its limits and implications

Examine

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

You’re presenting your own analysis.

Explain

Describe clearly and give reasons about how or why a concept, process, relationship or development occurs, using evidence and/or reasoning.

explain “how” usually requires analysis of the relationship, process, pattern, position, situation, or outcome

explain “why” usually requires analysis of motivations or reasons for the relationship, process, pattern, position, situation, or outcome

Identify

Indicate or provide information about a specified topic, without elaboration or explanation.

A second part will be added to such an essay question requiring explanation and analysis

Justify

Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion

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.

Support an argument

Provide specific examples and explain how they support a claim.