Legal Studies Command Terms

definitions copied from the Australian textbook

advise (medium to high)

Offer suggestions about the best course of

action or make recommendations

analyse (high)

Examine facts, data or issues in detail. Where

possible, identify the parts or components and

give a detailed commentary on those parts,

including how they relate to one another

compare (low to medium)

Recognise the similarities and differences

between approaches, roles or institutions

(by identifying the qualities or features they

have in common as well as those they do not)

define (low)

State the precise meaning, qualities or

features of a term, phrase, feature or

concept

describe (low)

give a detailed account of the

characteristics, features or qualities of a

system, process, role or institution

discuss (high)

give a clear and reasoned argument for and

against a particular issue by providing points

for and against, benefits and limitations or

restrictions (and strengths and weaknesses if

applicable). You can also give your opinion, and

should do so if the question asks

distinguish (low)

Show the clear differences and distinctive

characteristics between two or more

features, concepts, roles, methods or

institutions

evaluate (high)

Identify key features and assess their

relative merits by considering the strengths

and weaknesses and providing a concluding

judgment about the (overall) benefit or

worth of what is being assessed

explain (medium to high)

Clarify a point, feature or concept by describing

it in more detail or revealing relevant facts

about it; give a detailed account of how or why

with reference to the causes or effects

identify (low)

State or recognise a feature, factor or part from

a list, description, scenario or system (and

possibly provide some basic facts about it)

justify (low to medium)

Show or prove a statement, opinion,

argument or contention to be right

or reasonable by providing evidence,

information or examples

outline (low)

give a brief overview or summary of the

main features of a system, role, scenario or

argument

provide (low)

give, supply or specify

to what extent (medium to high)

Describe the degree or level to which a

statement, opinion or contention is (or is

believed to be) correct or valid

what (low)

Specify or provide further information about

a feature, concept, issue or circumstance

who (low)

Specify an individual (person), group,

institution or organisation

why (low to medium)

give a reason or explanation for the cause

or purpose of an action or impact