Command Words in Examination Questions

These cards show a description of the 'command' words you will find in examination questions. These words help you to decide how to answer the question.


Name/List
e.g. 'List three factors you would take into consideration when planning an office environment'
Write down the correct terms - sentences are not required.
State
e.g. 'State two hazards which could exist in an office environment'
Give the required answer - sentences are not required.
Describe
e.g. 'Describe two ways an hotel can ensure that staff communicate more effectively with each other and with customers'
Use full sentences and give as much detail as possible.
Select
e.g. 'Select up to three pieces of further information from earlier tasks which you think are needed'
Choose essential information from the data given.
Explain
e.g. 'Explain three factors you would look for when short-listing applicants for the manager's post'
Fully develop your answer using sentences and give examples to support your answer.
Discuss
e.g. 'Discuss the importance of communication to the efficiency of an organisation'
Fully explore both sides of the question, explaining the different viewpoints.
Evaluate/Assess
e.g. 'Evaluate one advantage and one disadvantage of open plan offices'
Weigh up and make a judgement, clearly giving reasons for your decision and relating your answer to the scenario.
Identify/Examine
e.g. 'Examine three advantages of using a word processor to merge customer details into a standard letter'
Name and explain.
Recall
e.g. 'Recall the file MEMBERS which is part of the customer database for Square Eyes Videos'
Load a file from disk.
Compose
e.g. 'Compose a reply to the following memo which has been received from Head Office'
Make up, write in your own words.
Emphasise/Enhance
e.g. 'Use the facilities of your computer to enhance your work'
Make important text stand out using bold, underline, spaced capitals or font size. Add a border to a page. Add a piece of clipart.
Prepare/Set Up/Create
e.g. 'Prepare a job advertisement from the information given'
There is no file to recall. You must create your own file using an appropriate software package.