Mastering command words is absolutely crucial for smashing your exams...
Health & Social Care102 views·Updated 10 Aug 2026·2 pagesHealth and Social Care Exam Key Terms
1
of 2
Understanding Key Command Words
Ever wondered why some students seem to nail every exam question whilst others struggle? The secret lies in command words - those crucial terms that tell you exactly what to do in your answer.
Discuss means you need to present different sides of an argument, weighing up the pros and cons before reaching a balanced conclusion. Think of it like being a fair judge who considers all the evidence. Assess takes this further by asking you to make a judgement about quality or value, using facts to back up your opinion.
Analyse is about breaking things down into smaller parts and examining how they work together. It's like taking apart a phone to understand how each component contributes to the whole device.
Top Tip: Always look for the command word first - it's your roadmap to success! Circle it and keep referring back to it as you write.
The chair example shows how these work in practice. Rather than just describing what a chair looks like, you'd discuss its various purposes, assess which materials work best, and analyse how design features like leg positioning create stability.
2
of 2
More Essential Command Words
These next command words are exam favourites, so getting them right will seriously boost your marks across all subjects.
Examine means to look closely and thoroughly at something, like a detective investigating clues. You're not just glancing - you're scrutinising every detail. Compare asks you to identify what's similar and different between two or more things, whilst describe wants you to paint a clear picture using relevant details.
Explain is about showing your understanding by giving reasons why something happens or works the way it does. Think of it as being a teacher who needs to help someone else understand. Evaluate combines several skills - you're making an informed judgement by weighing up evidence, considering different factors, and reaching a well-supported conclusion.
Remember: Each command word requires a different approach, so practise identifying them in past papers and mock questions.
The chair examples demonstrate these perfectly - examining involves touching and testing the materials, comparing looks at differences in cost and design, whilst evaluating considers long-term value and practicality. Master these command words and you'll tackle any question with confidence!
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Health & Social Care102 views·Updated 10 Aug 2026·2 pagesHealth and Social Care Exam Key Terms
Mastering command words is absolutely crucial for smashing your exams and coursework - they're the secret code that tells you exactly what your teacher wants! These specific words appear in every question and understanding them properly can be the difference...
1
of 2
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Understanding Key Command Words
Ever wondered why some students seem to nail every exam question whilst others struggle? The secret lies in command words - those crucial terms that tell you exactly what to do in your answer.
Discuss means you need to present different sides of an argument, weighing up the pros and cons before reaching a balanced conclusion. Think of it like being a fair judge who considers all the evidence. Assess takes this further by asking you to make a judgement about quality or value, using facts to back up your opinion.
Analyse is about breaking things down into smaller parts and examining how they work together. It's like taking apart a phone to understand how each component contributes to the whole device.
Top Tip: Always look for the command word first - it's your roadmap to success! Circle it and keep referring back to it as you write.
The chair example shows how these work in practice. Rather than just describing what a chair looks like, you'd discuss its various purposes, assess which materials work best, and analyse how design features like leg positioning create stability.
2
of 2Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
More Essential Command Words
These next command words are exam favourites, so getting them right will seriously boost your marks across all subjects.
Examine means to look closely and thoroughly at something, like a detective investigating clues. You're not just glancing - you're scrutinising every detail. Compare asks you to identify what's similar and different between two or more things, whilst describe wants you to paint a clear picture using relevant details.
Explain is about showing your understanding by giving reasons why something happens or works the way it does. Think of it as being a teacher who needs to help someone else understand. Evaluate combines several skills - you're making an informed judgement by weighing up evidence, considering different factors, and reaching a well-supported conclusion.
Remember: Each command word requires a different approach, so practise identifying them in past papers and mock questions.
The chair examples demonstrate these perfectly - examining involves touching and testing the materials, comparing looks at differences in cost and design, whilst evaluating considers long-term value and practicality. Master these command words and you'll tackle any question with confidence!
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
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