IBO Command Prompts and Action Verbs

The IBO uses these command prompts in exam ques6ons, so it is important that you understand
what is expected of you when you see these terms on a test paper.
Objec6ve 1
Dene Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quan:ty.
Draw Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler
(straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale. Graphs
should have points correctly ploBed (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or smooth curve.
Label Add labels to a diagram.
List Give a sequence of brief answers with no explana:on.
Measure Obtain a value for a quan:ty.
State Give a specic name, value or other brief answer without explana:on or calcula:on.
Objec6ve 2
Annotate Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.
Apply Use an idea, equa:on, principle, theory or law in rela:on to a given problem or issue.
Calculate Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages of working.
Describe Give a detailed account.
Dis6nguish Make clear the dierences between two or more concepts or items.
Es6mate Obtain an approximate value.
Iden6fy Provide an answer from a number of possibili:es.
Outline Give a brief account or summary.
Objec6ves 3, 4 and 5
Analyze Break down in order to bring out the essen:al elements or structure.
Comment Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calcula:on.
Compare and contrast Give an account of similari:es and dierences between two (or more)
items or situa:ons, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Construct Display informa:on in a diagramma:c or logical form.
Deduce Reach a conclusion from the informa:on given.
Interna'onal School of Tanganyika IBDP Environmental Systems and Socie'es - Standard Level

IBO Command Prompts and Action Verbs

Derive Manipulate a mathema:cal rela:onship to give a new equa:on or rela:onship.

Design Produce a plan, simula:on or model.
Determine Obtain the only possible answer.
Discuss Oer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or
hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate
evidence.
Evaluate Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limita:ons.
Explain Give a detailed account, including reasons or causes.
Jus6fy Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion.
Predict Give an expected result.
Solve Obtain the answer(s) using algebraic and/or numerical methods and/or graphical methods.
Suggest Propose a solu:on, hypothesis or other possible answer.

updated September 2010 by Brad Kremer