| Analyze |
Break into separate parts and discuss,
examine or interpret each part. |
| Compare |
Examine two or more things. Identify similarities
and differences. Comparisons generally ask for similarities
more than differences. |
| Contrast |
Show differences. Set in opposition. |
| Criticize |
Make judgment. Evaluate comparative worth. Criticism
often involves analysis. |
| Define |
Give the meaning; usually a meaning specific to
the course or subject. Determine the precise limits
of the term to be defined. Explain the exact meaning.
Definitions are usually short. |
| Describe |
Give a detailed account. Make a picture with words.
List characteristics, qualities and parts. |
| Discuss |
Consider and debate or argue the pros and cons
of an issue. Write about any conflict. Compare and
contrast. |
| Enumerate |
List several ideas, aspects, events, things,
qualities, reasons, etc. |
| Explain |
Make an idea clear. Show logically how a concept
is developed. Give reasons for an event. |
| Evaluate |
Give your opinion or cite the opinion of an expert.
Include evidence to support the evaluation. |
| Illustrate |
Give concrete examples. Explain clearly by using
comparisons or examples. |
| Interpret |
Comment upon, give examples, describe relationships.
Explain the meaning. Describe, then interpret. |
| Outline |
Describe main ideas, characteristics or events.
(Does not necessarily mean "write a Roman numeral/letter
outline.") |
| Prove |
Support with facts (especially facts presented
in the class or in the text). |
| Relate |
Show the connections between ideas and events.
Provide a larger context. |
| State |
Explain precisely. |
| Summarize |
Give a brief account. Include conclusions. Avoid
unnecessary details. |
| Trace |
Show the order of events or progress of a subject
or event. |
