Compare
Look for similarities and
differences between the things mentioned (e.g., "Compare the U.S. and Confederate
Constitutions").
Contrast
Stress the dissimilarities
Criticize
Make your judgment about
the item in question. Stress the deficiencies (e.g., "Criticize Paul
Valery's views on the poet's language").
Define
Provide a concise and accurate
definition of what is called for.
Describe
Mention the chief characteristics
of a situation or retell the essential features of a story (e.g., "Describe
France on the eve of the revolution," or "Describe Conrad's Heart of
Darkness").
Diagram
Provide a drawing, chart,
or plan.
Discuss
Be analytical. Give
reasons pro and con.
Evaluate
Provide both positive and
negative sides of the topic (e.g., "Evaluate the role of Disraeli in forming
the modern Conservative Party").
Explain
Give reasons for what is
asked for. Provide the causes (e.g., "Explain the reasons for the
notion of penetrance in population genetics").
Illustrate
Use examples. Or,
where appropriate, provide a diagram or figure.
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Interpret
Translate, solve, or comment
on a subject, ususally giving your judgment about it.
Justify
Provide the reasons for
your conclusions or for the statement made in the question (e.g., "Jusity
Henry Clay's interpretation of the Constitution").
List
Provide an itemized list.
The items should be numbered.
Outline
Organize your answer into
main points and subordinate points. While it is not necessary that
your answer be in outline form, it helps to prepare it that way.
Prove
Provide factual evidence
or, where appropriate, a logical or mathematical proof.
Relate
Show the connection between
the things mentioned in the question. Note this does not mean to
compare, so if you are asked to relate the American and French revolutions,
you are not to compare them but to show how one influences the other.
Review
Provide a summary, usually
a critical one. A review usually also implies commenting on important
aspects of the question.
Summarize
Provide a summary,usually
without comment or criticism.
Trace
Describe the progress of
some historical event or, where appropriate, describe the causes of some
event.
Source: How to Study.
Deese & Deese, 1994.
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