Scribd
Upload
64 views

Action Verbs Used in Assignments and Examinations-1

The document outlines action verbs used in assignments and examinations to clarify expectations. It defines verbs such as analyze, compare, demonstrate, describe, discuss, distinguish, explain, identify, illustrate, list, motivate, name, outline, state, and summarize.

Uploaded by

Octavian Vurunga
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
64 views

Action Verbs Used in Assignments and Examinations-1

The document outlines action verbs used in assignments and examinations to clarify expectations. It defines verbs such as analyze, compare, demonstrate, describe, discuss, distinguish, explain, identify, illustrate, list, motivate, name, outline, state, and summarize.

Uploaded by

Octavian Vurunga
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

FACULTY OF COMMERCE AND LAW

Action Verbs Used in Assignments and Examinations


(Adapted from North West University)

To prevent confusion and simplify your studies, all outcomes, assignments, tests, and examinations will
be formulated in terms of the following action verbs. Study them in order to know exactly what is
expected of you when you come across them in the module, test, assignment or exam.

 Analyse
Breakdown complex compositions (e.g. a problem) into the individual constituent parts of an overall
situation. Then determine how these parts relate to one another and fit into an overall structure or
purpose. This requires distinguishing relevant from irrelevant from irrelevant parts or important from
unimportant parts and determining how elements fit or function within a structure. Also determine a
point of view, bias, values or intent underpinning presented material.

 Compare
Point out the similarities facets that are the same) and the differences between objects, ideas or points
of view. The word “contrast” can also be used. When you compare two or more objects, you should do
so systematically – completing one aspect at a time. It is always better to do this in your own words.

 Define
Give the precise meaning of something. Very often definitions have to be studied word by word.

 Demonstrate
Include and discuss examples. You have to prove that you understand how a process works or how a
concept is applied in real – life situations.

 Describe
Say exactly what something is like, give an account of the characteristics or nature of something, explain
how something works. No opinion or argument is needed.

 Discuss
Comment on something in your own words. Often requires debating two viewpoints or two different
possibilities.
 Distinguish
Point out the differences between objects, different ideas, or points of view. Usually requires you to use
your own words.

 Essay
An extensive description of a topic is required

 Example
A practical illustration of a concept is required.

 Explain
Clarify or give reasons for something, usually in your words. You must prove that you understand the
content. It may be useful to use examples or illustrations.

 Identify
Give the essential characteristics or aspects of a phenomenon e.g a good research design.

 Illustrate
Draw a diagram or sketch that represents a phenomenon or idea.

 List
Simply provide a list of names, facts or items asked for. A particular category or order may be specified.

 Motivate
You should give an explanation of the reasons for your statements or views. You should try to convince
the Reader of your view.

 Name or mention
Describe briefly without providing details.

 Outline
Emphasise the major features, structures or general principles of a topic, omitting minor details.
Slightly more detail is required than in the case of naming, listing or stating of information.

 State
Supply the required information without discussing it.

 Summarise
Give a structured overview of the key (most important) aspects of a topic, must always be done in
your words.

 Formulate
Set forth systematically

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………

You might also like