Exam Prep: Understanding Questions asked in Exam Papers
That moment in the exam when you read a question and suddenly you go blank because you have no idea what the words mean or what the words are asking you to do and a grey fog hugs your brain; sweat breaks out on your forehead and your palms become sweaty and you wish you were on an exotic island in the middle of the ocean! We have put together a little table for you to help make it easier to understand the words used in the exam paper questions. It gives you the word that may be used in the exam question and then describes what you must do to answer the question. On the student portal is an extensive document called Exam and Study Technique that you may find useful in helping you to prepare for the exams.
| Question word | What is required of you |
| Analyse | Separate, examine (consider) and interpret |
| Classify | Divide into groups or types so that things that are similar, are in the same group |
| Comment | Write generally about |
| Compare | Point out or show both similarities or differences |
| Define | Give a clear meaning |
| Describe | List the main characteristics of something |
| Discuss | Consider all information and reach a conclusion |
| Evaluate | Express an opinion based on your findings |
| Explain | Make clear, interpret and spell out |
| Forecast | Say what you think will happen in the future |
| Give/provide | Write down only facts |
| Identify | Name the essential characteristics |
| Interpret | Give the intended meaning of |
| List | Write a list of items |
| Mention | Refer to relevant points |
| Name | State something – give, identify or mention |
| State | Write down information without discussion |
| Suggest | Offer an explanation or solution |
