1. Instruction terms are words commonly used in
essay questions. They instruct or direct you in the approach you
should take towards the proposition of the question.
2. The exact meaning of these terms will vary depending upon the
subject being studied. The following give some idea of what they
normally mean for essays and examination questions.
3. Think carefully about the meaning of these terms in relation to
the remainder of the question. Even though
you might feel confident, do not become blasé or inattentive. Sometimes even
experienced students forget the important difference between Compare and Contrast.
4. Try to understand exactly what an instruction is asking you to
do - but be reasonable. Don't look for problems where they might not exist.
If in doubt, ask your tutor.
account for
Explain the reasons for, giving an indication of
all relevant circumstances. Not to be confused with 'Give an
account of' which asks only for a detailed description.
analyse
Study in depth, identifying, describing, and criticising in detail
the main characteristics.
argue
Put forward a proposition, then illustrate it, discuss its significance, and defend it
against possible counter-charges.
assess
Examine closely, with a view to 'weighing up' a
particular situation. Consider in a balanced way the strengths
and weaknesses or points for and against a proposition. In
conclusion, state your judgement clearly.
calculate
Reckon or compute by mathematical means.
clarify
Simplify and make clear.
comment
State clearly and in moderate fashion your opinions
on the material in question. Support your views with reference
to suitable evidence or explanations.
compare
Look for similarities and differences between two
or more things.
consider
Express your thoughts and observations about something.
contrast
Deliberately single out and emphasise the differences and dissimilarities between two or more things.
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criticise
Give your judgement about a statement or a body
of work; explore its implications, discussing all the evidence
which is available. Be specific in your examination.
define
Set down the precise meaning of something. Be
prepared to state the limits of the definition. Take note of
multiple meanings if they exist.
demonstrate
Show how, and prove by giving examples.
describe
Give a detailed and comprehensive account of.
develop
Expand on something, taking it further.
distinguish
Explain the differences between.
discuss
Investigate and examine by careful argument.
Explore the implications and the advantages or disadvantages.
Debate the case and possibly consider any alternatives. This is
probably the most common instruction term. It is inviting you
to say something interesting in response to the topic in
question. You can choose your own approach.
elaborate
Add further details to something.
enumerate
Make an ordered list, giving the main features or general principles - and omitting details.
evaluate
Make an appraisal of the worth of something in the
light of its truth or utility. Emphasise the views of authorities
as well as your personal estimation.
examine
Enquire into, attempt to discover, investigate, look closely into something.
expand
Go into more detail.
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explain
Make plain. Account for. Clarify, interpret, and spell
out the material you present, giving reasons for important
features or developments.
explore
Approach in a questioning manner, and consider from a variety of viewpoints.
give an account of
Describe in some detail, and explain fully.
how
In what way, by what means or method, or to what extent.
how far ...
Similar to questions which begin 'To what
extent...'. You are expected to make your case or present your
argument, whilst showing an awareness that alternate or even
contradictory explanations may exist. Careful assessment and
weighing of evidence are called for.
identify
Pick out the key features or important issues of something.
illustrate
Make clear and explicit by the discussion of
concrete examples.
interpret
Explain the meaning of something, make clear and explicit - using your own judgement, experience, or opinion.
justify
Show adequate grounds for decisions or conclusions.
Answer or refute the main objections likely to be made against
them.
list
Make a list or catalogue of things.
outline
Give the main features or the general principles of
a subject, omitting minor details and emphasising structure or
arrangement.
prove
Demonstrate the truth or falsity of something, by presenting evidence.
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relate
Show how things are connected, and how they
possibly affect, cause, or resemble each other.
review
Make a survey of, examining the subject critically.
show
Reveal or disclose (in some form of logical sequence).
state
Present the main points in brief, clear form.
summarise
Give a concise account of the main points of a
matter, omitting details and examples.
to what extent
Similar to questions which begin 'How far...'. You are expected to make your case or present your
argument, whilst showing an awareness that alternate or even
contradictory explanations may exist. Careful assessment and
weighing of evidence are called for.
trace
Follow the development or history of a topic from some
point of origin. Explain stage by stage.
translate
Express in a different form, or convert from one language to another.
verify
Show to be true, or confirm.
