Each subject in the IB Diploma has its own subset of command terms: a shorter selection that are used in the subject. These are in the Appendices of the subject guides.
Define – Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.
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 plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or smooth curve.
Identify – Provide an answer from a number of possibilities. Recognize and state briefly a distinguishing fact or feature.
Label – Add a title, labels or brief explanation(s) to a diagram or graph.
List – Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.
Measure – Obtain a value for a quantity.
Recall – Remember or recognize from prior learning experiences.
State – Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation.
Write down – Obtain the answer(s), usually by extracting information. Little or no calculation is required. Working does not need to be shown.
Annotate – Add brief notes to a diagram or graph.
Apply – Use knowledge and understanding in response to a given situation or real circumstances. Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given problem or issue. (See also “Use”.)
Calculate – Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working.
Classify – Arrange or order by class or category.
Construct – Display information in a diagrammatic or logical form.
Describe – Give a detailed account or picture of a situation, event, pattern or process.
Determine – Obtain the only possible answer.
Distinguish – Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items.
Estimate – Obtain an approximate value for an unknown quantity.
Explain – Give a detailed account including reasons or causes. (See also “Justify”.)
Explore – Undertake a systematic process of discovery.
Find – Obtain an answer showing relevant stages in the working.
Hence – Use the preceding work to obtain the required result.
Interpret – Use knowledge and understanding to recognize trends and draw conclusions from given information.
Investigate – Observe, study or make a detailed and systematic examination, in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
Outline – Give a brief account or summary.
Plot – Mark the position of points on a diagram.
Predict – Give an expected result of an upcoming action or event.
Select – Choose from a list or group.
Show – Give the steps in a calculation or derivation.
Show that – Obtain the required result (possibly using information given) without the formality of proof. “Show that” questions do not generally require the use of a calculator.
Sketch – Represent by means of a diagram or graph (labelled as appropriate). The sketch should give a general idea of the required shape or relationship, and should include relevant features.
Solve – Obtain the answer(s) using algebraic and/or numerical and/or graphical methods.
Suggest – Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer.
Trace – Follow and record the action of an algorithm.
Use – Apply knowledge or rules to put theory into practice. (See also “Apply”.)
Analyse – Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure. (To identify parts and relationships, and interpret information to reach conclusions.)
Comment – Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation.
Compare – Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Compare and contrast – Give an account of the similarities and differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Contrast – Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items or situations, referring to both (all) of them throughout.
Create – Evolve from one’s own thought or imagination, as a work or an invention.
Critique* – Provide a critical review or commentary, especially when dealing with works of art or literature. (See also “Evaluate”.)
Deduce – Reach a conclusion from the information given.
Demonstrate – Make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples or practical application.
Design – Produce a plan, simulation or model.
Develop – Improve incrementally, elaborate or expand in detail. Evolve to a more advanced or effective state.
Discuss – Offer 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.
Document – Credit sources of information used by referencing (or citing) following a recognized referencing system. References should be included in the text and also at the end of the piece of work in a reference list or bibliography.
Evaluate – Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations. (See also “Critique”.)
Formulate – Express precisely and systematically the relevant concept(s) or argument(s).
Justify – Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion. (See also “Explain”.)
Organize – Put ideas and information into a proper or systematic order.
Otherwise – It is suggested that the preceding work is used, but other methods could also receive credit.
Present – Offer for display, observation, examination or consideration.
Prioritize – Give relative importance to, or put in an order of preference.
Prove – Use a sequence of logical steps to obtain the required result in a formal way.
Summarize – Abstract a general theme or major point(s).
Synthesize – Combine different ideas in order to create new understanding.
To what extent – Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be presented clearly and supported with appropriate evidence and sound argument.
Verify – Provide evidence that validates the result.