Exam command words: describe, explain and evaluate
Learn what describe, explain, compare, analyse and evaluate really ask you to do in an exam, using an exam board's definitions.
GCSEA-LevelHigh SchoolAPCurriculum fit: GCSE, A-Level, US high school and AP. Command words are defined by each exam board or test provider, and meanings can differ by subject. The definitions quoted here come from AQA's GCSE Economics command-words page as one example. Always check the list for your own subject and board.
On this page
What is it?
Command words are the verbs at the start of an exam question, such as 'describe', 'explain' or 'evaluate'. They tell you what kind of answer is expected, and answering what is asked earns the marks.
Exam boards publish their own lists, and the meanings can differ slightly between subjects. This guide uses the definitions on AQA's GCSE Economics page as an example. US exams use similar task words, but check the course guide for your test.
Key formulas and ideas
- State or identify: give a short answer with no explanation.
- Describe: set out characteristics (what something is like or what happens).
- Explain: set out reasons or purposes (why or how).
- Analyse: break information down to identify and interpret the main points.
- Evaluate: judge from the available evidence. Assess: make an informed judgment.
- Justify: support a case with evidence. Discuss: present key points about different ideas, or the strengths and weaknesses of an idea.
Worked examples
Example 1: Describe versus explain
Question: A graph shows a reaction speeding up as temperature rises. Answer 'Describe the pattern' and 'Explain the pattern'.
- Describe: the rate of reaction increases as the temperature increases.
- Explain: particles have more energy at higher temperatures, so they collide more often and more successfully.
Answer: Describe says what happens; explain says why it happens
Example 2: Use the marks
Question: How should you plan a 4-mark 'Explain' question?
- The marks suggest how many developed points are expected, often about two points with a reason each.
- Check your exam board's mark schemes for the pattern.
Answer: Give enough separate, developed reasons to match the marks
Example 3: An evaluation
Question: Outline the structure of an answer to 'Evaluate the use of nuclear power.'
- Give points for it, such as low carbon emissions.
- Give points against it, such as radioactive waste and cost.
- Finish with a judgement that weighs the evidence.
Answer: Points for, points against, and a supported judgement
Common mistakes
- Describing when the question asks you to explain.
- Giving no final judgement in an 'evaluate' or 'assess' answer.
- Ignoring the number of marks.
- Assuming the same word means exactly the same in every subject or exam board.
Practice questions
Frequently asked questions
Are command words the same for every exam board?
They are very similar, but each board publishes its own list with definitions. Check the one for your course.
Do all exam boards use the same definitions?
No. Boards publish their own lists, and meanings can differ by subject. Check the command words for your subject on your board's website.
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Reviewed by StudyMorrow editorial review on 5 Nov 2026.