Command words

Command words are the words and phrases used in exams and other assessment tasks that tell students how they should answer the question.

The following command words are taken from Ofqual's official list of command words and their meanings that are relevant to this subject. In addition, where necessary, we have included our own command words and their meanings to complement Ofqual's list.

Calculate

Work out the value of something.

Compare

Identify similarities and/or differences.

Define

Specify meaning.

Describe

Set out characteristics.

Discuss

Present key points.

Draw

Produce a diagram.

Explain

Set out purposes or reasons.

State

Express in clear terms.

Suggest

Present a possible case/solution.