Exam Command Words
Learn what each science exam command word demands and how many marks it typically carries.
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Study Smart Tips for Exam Command Words
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Active Recall
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Spaced Repetition
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Multiple Sessions
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Explain Aloud
Verbalize answers to reinforce understanding
Questions Covered in This Set
10 cards to master
What does 'State / Give / Name' require?
A single fact with no justification — usually 1 mark. Write one line and stop.
Describe vs Explain — what's the difference?
Describe = WHAT happens (the pattern). Explain = WHY it happens (cause and mechanism).
Which words must appear in an 'Explain' answer?
Causal links: because, therefore, so, due to, this means that, as a result.
What does 'Evaluate / Discuss' demand?
Points for, points against, PLUS a justified conclusion ('Overall... because...'). Typically 4–6 marks.
What extra mark is usually available when describing a graph?
Quoting data/figures from the graph, not just the general trend.
What does 'Suggest' mean in an exam question?
Apply science you know to an unfamiliar situation; hedge with 'may' or 'could be because'. Usually 2–3 marks.
What does 'Compare' require?
Similarities AND differences, with both things mentioned in every point ('Whereas A..., B...').
How should you use the mark count in brackets?
As a recipe — it tells you how many separate points or causal steps to give (e.g. 3 marks = 3 linked steps).
What does 'Calculate' require beyond the number?
Show every step of working and include the correct units. Typically 2–4 marks.
Why do students lose marks even when they know the science?
They answer a question that wasn't asked — ignoring the command word and giving the wrong shape of answer.
