Edexcel A Level Physics Command Words
Devise
Plan or invent a procedure from existing principles/ideas
Draw
Produce a diagram either using a ruler or using freehand.
Sketch
Produce a freehand drawing. For a graph, this would require a line and labelled axis with important features indicated, the axes are not scaled.
Show that
Prove that a numerical figure is as stated in the question. The answer must be to at least 1 more significant figure than the numerical figure in the question.
Give/state/name
All of these command words are really synonyms. They generally all require recall of one or more pieces of information.
Explain
An explanation requires a justification/exemplification of a point. The answer must contain some element of reasoning/justification, this can include mathematical explanations.
Derive
Combine two or more equations or principles to develop a new equation.
Give a reason/reasons
When a statement has been made and the requirement is only to give the reasons why.
State what is meant by
When the meaning of a term is expected but there are different ways of how these can be described.
Write
When the questions ask for an equation.
Deduce
Draw/reach conclusion(s) from the information provided.
Predict
Give an expected result.
Assess
Give careful consideration to all the factors or events that apply and identify which are the most important or relevant. Make a judgement on the importance of something, and come to a conclusion where needed.
Justify
Give evidence to support (either the statement given in the question or an earlier answer).
Discuss
Identify the issue/situation/problem/argument that is being assessed within the question. Explore all aspects of an issue/situation/problem/argument. Investigate the issue/situation etc by reasoning or argument.
Criticise
Inspect a set of data, an experimental plan or a scientific statement and consider the elements. Look at the merits and/or faults of the information presented and back judgements made.
Compare and contrast
Looking for the similarities and differences of two (or more) things. Should not require the drawing of a conclusion. Answer must relate to both (or all) things mentioned in the question. The answer must include at least one similarity and one difference.
Calculate
Obtain a numerical answer, showing relevant working. If the answer has a unit, this must be included.
Plot
Produce a graph by marking points accurately on a grid from data that is provided and then drawing a line of best fit through these points. A suitable scale and appropriately labelled axes must be included if these are not provided in the question.
Add/Label
Requires the addition or labelling to a stimulus material given in the question, for example labelling a diagram or adding units to a table.
Complete
Requires the completion of a table/diagram.
Comment on
Requires the synthesis of a number of variables from data/information to form a judgement.
Evaluate
Review information then bring it together to form a conclusion, drawing on evidence including strengths, weaknesses, alternative actions, relevant data or information. Come to a supported judgement of a subject's qualities and relation to its context.
Determine
The answer must have an element which is quantitative from the stimulus provided, or must show how the answer can be reached quantitatively.
Describe
To give an account of something. Statements in the response need to be developed as they are often linked but do not need to include a justification or reason.
Identify
Usually requires some key information to be selected from a given stimulus/resource.