Small terms that mean so much

RESIST THAT temptation. It's simply too easy to rush in and answer something you weren't actually asked.

There are some key words that are used in exam questions in all subjects. You should spend a little time figuring out exactly what you have been asked before you apply your biro to the answer book.

Outline, state, list: These words imply brevity. Use the marks allocated to the question or part of a question as a guideline to what is required.

Define: Here, you are being asked to explain the exact meaning of a word or phrase. It also calls for the brevity treatment rather than a lengthy descriptive answer.

Describe: In contrast to outline, state, and list, more is required than a bare outline. Again, use the marks as a guide. A useful general rule is to first set out the main points and then expand on them as time allows.

Discuss: More than a simple description is needed. Different aspects of the topic should be teased out and a student may give his or her own opinion, within reason.

Explain: Again, more than an outline or description is being asked for. You may need to describe why something works, how it works or what it means.

Compare, Contrast: To compare is to look for similarities between items or ideas - set things down to see whether they agree or disagree, with the emphasis on agreement.

To contrast is to look for differences - the emphasis is on setting things down in opposition, in order to demonstrate difference. If you are asked to compare and contrast, both similarities and differences should be clearly set out.

Argument: To argue is, essentially, to discuss with reasoning. It is not a simple description. You are attempting to persuade the examiner of your point of view by giving reasons.

Plurals: A common pitfall is to give one example where two or more are obviously called for. Watch out for the letter "s" at the end of words. If a question asks you to illustrate your answer with diagrams or graphs, then it means more than one. This seems obvious, but many students overlook it and give only one.

Criticise: It means you are being asked for your opinion, but the opinion must be supported by analysis.

Summarise: The art of summary is to include all the important points in the least possible space. The shorter the answer the better, provided you are not leaving out any important points.

Demonstrate, Prove: These words are often used in science and maths papers where they mean to prove with certainty - something more than an argument is needed. A standard proof will usually have been covered in class. An experiment example or diagram may be useful in proving the hypothesis.

There is no need to spend a lot of time working out exactly what a word means. Just be aware of the broad differences between the relatively straightforward terms such as outline and list and the more discursive terms such as discuss, contrast and compare.

You will always get some credit for straightforward description but, if the question demands it, it is the analysis, criticism or discussion that will gain those much sought after extra marks.