Command Verbs
Command verbs refer to words that give an instruction or direction to do something. As a learner, you will come across command words during exams and assessments. They usually appear at the beginning of a sentence and help the learner understand exactly what the question is asking and how to answer correctly. Command words provide information on the required level of detail needed in an answer. In this blog, we will explore the most common command verbs and how to answer them correctly in an assessment:
Identify – Pick out the key points
What are the main facts?
Use your knowledge to highlight the most important information accurately. This often tests memory and recall. You may need to choose from options, point something out, or list key features.
Describe – Tell me what it’s like
What is it?
Give a detailed, logical picture of the subject. Focus on key features so the reader can clearly understand what it looks like, how it works, or what happens.
Explain – Tell me how or why
Tell me how or why.
Provide an explanation with reasoning. Use words like ‘because’, ‘therefore’, or ‘this means’ to show cause and effect. Apply reasoning to account for how something works or to demonstrate understanding of the underlying concepts. Your response may include examples to support and strengthen your reasons.
Discuss – Explore different ideas
What are the different viewpoints?
Provide an explanation with reasoning. Use words like ‘because’, ‘therefore’, or ‘this means’ to show cause and effect. Apply reasoning to account for how something works or to demonstrate understanding of the underlying concepts. Your response may include examples to support and strengthen your reasons.
Analyse – Break it down
What are the parts and how do they link?
Examine the information closely by breaking it into components. Explore each part in detail and give justified reasons for any conclusions you reach.
Evaluate – Judge and conclude
Is it good or bad and why?
Examine the information closely by breaking it into components. Explore each part in detail and give justified reasons for any conclusions you reach.
Reflect – Look back to improve
What did I learn and what could I do better?
Think about your actions, experiences or learning and what they mean for your future practice or development. Identify what you did well, what could be improved and what you would change next time.
Other Command Verbs
• Assess – Weigh up and conclude
• Calculate – Work out the numbers
• Classify – Sort into groups
• Compare – Identify similarities and differences
• Complete – Finish the information
• Contrast – Explore differences
• Define – State the meaning
• Examine – Explore and judge an example
• Give – Recall a fact
• Justify – Give reasons for your answer
• Label – Add names
• List – Write items in a sequence
• Select – Choose the best fit
• Summarise – Condense information clearly
• State – Say the fact clearly
• Using an example – Support your point
• Which – Choose the correct option
Top Tips for Using Command Verbs
1. Identify the verb. This tells you exactly how to answer the question. It may help to underline or highlight the keywords and command verbs.
2. Plan your answer using the verb. This will help you to ensure you meet the instructions of the question.
3. Use examples where possible. This will make your answers stronger and clearer.
4. Practice with past papers. This will help you to become familiar with the expected depth and style of response.
Understanding command verbs and question words is key to answering questions accurately and confidently. They tell you exactly what action to take, whether it’s recalling a fact, explaining a concept, analysing data, or evaluating evidence. By spotting the verb, matching your answer to it, and using examples where needed, you can structure your responses clearly and effectively. Mastering these verbs not only improves your results, but also strengthens your critical thinking and communication skills, making you a more confident and capable learner.