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Here are some key or action
words to consider as you try to understand the essay question. Click on
the menu above and it will take you to a section of the particular word:
- Account
Explain why something is like it is
-
Assess
Give a skilled weighed
argument of a situation
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Analyse
Give a detailed examination,
breaking parts down and give a methodical and logical answer.
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Argue
Present your opinion
and then through reasoning defend with examples
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Comment
on
Give a view as well
as a presentation of information
-
Compare
Present similarities
and differences
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Contrast
Present the differences
only
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Consider
Engage with the issues
involved
Top
- Criticise
Point out mistakes or weaknesses and
point out any favourable aspect of the subject in question. Give a
critical analysis (not about being negative)
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Differentiate
Present the differences
between two things
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Define
Explain the precise
meaning of a concept
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Describe
Give a detailed description
of something
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Discuss
Give arguments for
and against a situation or explain an item or concept and give details
about it with supporting information, examples for and against and
also explanations for the fact presented. This is one of the not so
easy essays.
Top
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Enumerate
Go through the arguments
one at a time, possibly numbering them
- Explain
Give a detailed and exact explanation
of ideas or principle. This should be simple and straightforward in
displaying knowledge
- Illustrate
Use a figure or diagram to explain
or clarify, or make clear and explicit.
- Interpret
Be straightforward and clear in translating
and developing something
-
Give convincing or demonstrate the logical
arguments for holding a position . Prove requires the "pro"
points and disprove requires the"contra"
points.
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Reconcile
Bring oppositional points together
Relate
Show the connections between various
views or matters
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Review
Bring forward a critical survey of
existing material
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Show
Give the arguments and examples for
holding a position. This requires an answer that expresses the relevant
points briefly and clearly without lengthy discussions or minor details.
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State
Lay out matters clearly and concisely
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Summarise/Outline
Bring together the substance/ only
the main points of a concern and leave out details
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Trace
Give a historical analysis or follow step by step. This requires one
to state and give a brief description in a logical or chronological
order of stages in the development of e.g. a process or theory etc.
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