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.

We have included the following command words and their meanings to complement Ofqual’s official list.

Evaluate

Tests evaluation. It requires students to consider different viewpoints and arrive at a judgement.

Explain

Tests knowledge and understanding of beliefs, teachings and practices. It requires students to identify relevant points and demonstrate understanding by adding detail/development.

Explain how X may influence Y

Tests knowledge and understanding of (eg) how a religious belief or practice influences individuals or groups.

Give

Tests recall of knowledge, eg two examples or two beliefs.