Table 1 Exam words and their meanings


Exam word


choose Meaning


Pick the best or most correct option between many options given


comment Give viewpoints on a subject; give your own view and defend it


compare debate define discuss


draw up draw


evaluate explain illustrate


identify indicate


Describe what is similar and what is different between two or more things


Research and then listen to and discuss all sides of an issue. Give and defend your own view


Give the full meaning of something accurately, as in a dictionary


Talk or write in detail about something, giving different ideas and arguments about the topic


Compile; develop Show in a visual way


Look at the facts carefully and form your own conclusion


Give the details of something in full sentences and give reasons


Give an example of what you mean or explain it visually


Find, name and mention Show


interpret Work out the meaning mention motivate


name provide refer to research review state suggest Give or name in words


Show to be true by giving reasons or examples


State what something is called without giving any explanation


Supply, give or state information as requested


Consult information, a diagram or another source in your answer


Find, interpret and apply information from different sources


Do a formal assessment of something with a view to make changes, if necessary


Give, say or write down the information asked for


Give ideas, solutions or reasons for something


How to prepare for tests and exams


You need to know what to expect in tests and exams and you need to study for these in an active way.


Three Rs of active studying


Studying actively will help you to remember what you read. Read: Read headings and look at pictures and graphs to get the general idea first. Make sure you understand what you read. Read the text more than once. Highlight keywords. Record: Make notes in your own words. Draw mind maps of key ideas. Recall: Answer questions. Write down answers without looking in your textbook or notes. Explain what you have read to someone else.


Planning your time You will be given time to read through your test or exam paper before you start writing. Use this time to read all the questions. Then plan how much time you will spend on each question.


How to read questions


Read the instructions at least twice and make sure you know what you have to do. Note the mark allocation: Do not write a paragraph for one mark. Give four facts if the question is for four marks.


Some last tips!


✔ Relax. Be positive and remember: You can do this!


✔ Do not panic. If you struggle, try again! ✔ Read all the questions. Plan your time. ✔ Note the mark allocation. Do not write a paragraph for one mark!


✔ Plan your answers. Check your answers.


142 Study and exam skills


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