info@ibglobalacademy.org
04/12/2025
Specific verbs or phrases known as IB (International Baccalaureate) command terms are used in exam questions to specify the kind of response that is expected, ranging from simple recall of information to intricate analysis and evaluation.
An Overview
Goal: By outlining the cognitive task (such as "define," "explain," or "evaluate"), they help students respond to questions in an efficient manner.
IB command terms are frequently divided into the following categories:
Knowledge-based: List, outline, define, describe, and state.
Analysis: Describe, look at, talk about, contrast, and compare.
Evaluation: Examine, defend, judge, and argue, to what degree.
Examples:
Define: Give a clear definition or justification.
Describe: Provide a thorough description or image.
Explain: Provide a thorough explanation that includes any causes or justifications.
Compare: Point out parallels and divergences.
Contrast: Draw attention to the differences.
Assess: Determine a conclusion or evaluation by balancing the advantages and disadvantages.
Importance: Since these command terms specify the type and depth of response required, mastering them and using them appropriately are essential for success on IB exams.
For IB exams, it is essential to comprehend and use IB command terms correctly because they specify the type and depth of response that is expected, have a direct effect on your grade, and guarantee that you successfully answer the question's requirements.
This explains the significance of command terms:
Clarity and Goals
Clearly state the examiner's expectations for your response by using command words like "explain," "analyse," "evaluate," etc.
Avoid Ambiguity: Even if your argument is accurate, misstating a command term can result in answers that are either irrelevant or incomplete.
Concentrate on the Task: You can concentrate your response on the particular task that the question requires if you comprehend the command term.
Maximizing Marks:
Alignment with Rubric: IB examiners assign grades according to how well you respond to a question's particular requirements, which are frequently outlined in the command term.
Fulfilling Criteria: If you successfully answer command terms, you will be able to fulfil the requirements for full credit.
Time management: By identifying the command term early on, you can properly organise your response, saving time and omitting extraneous details.
It is essential to comprehend and use command terms correctly in order to succeed on IB exams. These terms help you approach and respond to questions in a way that ensures you give the precise kind of reply that examiners are seeking. Even with accurate content, interpreting incorrectly a command term may result in incomplete responses.
How to understand and use International Baccalaureate command terms in the examination responses will be covered in this article. By being proficient in such terms, you can create answers that meet the requirements of the examiners and earn better grades.
The Reasons They Are Important
Understanding command terms correctly is crucial because they dictate the format and complexity of your response. For instance, "describe" requests a thorough explanation, whereas "analyse" calls for dissecting the data into its constituent parts and talking about connections or underlying ideas.
Analyze
When asked to analyse, you must dissect the information into its component elements and consider the relationships between them. If you are asked to analyse the reasons behind of a specific event in International Baccalaureate History, for example, you should talk about the various factors that led to the instance and how each of them is related.
Contrast and compare
"Contrast" calls for you to draw attention to differences, whereas "Compare" seeks you to find similarities. For instance, in IB Biology, you may be required to contrast and compare the cell structures of plants and animals. You should use specific examples to clearly address the similarities and differences in your response.
Evaluate
Assessing entails balancing the advantages and disadvantages in order to form an opinion. If you are asked to assess the effects of a specific policy in classes like IB Economics, you should talk about the usefulness, advantages, and disadvantages of the policy while supporting your arguments with evidence.
Talk about
"Discuss" necessitates weighing various points of view or arguments fairly. A discussion in IB TOK might entail examining various viewpoints on a knowledge query, taking into account both pro and con arguments, and supplying evidence for each.
Explain
You should provide a thorough description of the circumstance, idea, or procedure when asked to do so; no analysis or interpretation is necessary. When discussing a physical feature, such as a river delta, in IB Geography, one must explain its properties, formation, and appearance.
Organising Your Answers
Greetings
Directly address the command term at the beginning of your response. For instance, if you are asked to "analyse," start with a succinct synopsis that lays the groundwork for the more in-depth analysis that will come next.
Paragraphs in the body
Every paragraph ought to concentrate on a distinct facet of the inquiry, and specifically address the command term. To keep your response on topic and to help the reader follow along, use titles or topic sentences. When appropriate, use charts or diagrams to illustrate your points along with examples and supporting data.
Relate your conclusions or arguments to the IB command term in a summary. If you use the word "evaluate," the outcome should balance the topic's overall advantages and disadvantages, offering a final assessment derived from your research.
Relate your conclusions or arguments to the IB command term in a summary. If you use the word "evaluate," the outcome should balance the topic's overall advantages and disadvantages, offering a final assessment derived from your research.
When it comes to using command terms in your responses, IB Global Academy offers thorough explanations and examples. Make use of these resources to hone your exam strategies and expand your knowledge.
Advice for Achievement
Take Your Time Reading the Question
Read the question carefully and look for the command term before you begin your response. To help you remember what kind of response is needed, underline or highlight it.
Prepare Your Response
Take a few minutes to prepare your response, making sure that every section of it responds to the command term. This will guarantee that you don't overlook any important details and help you organise your essay logically.
Remain Concentrated
Refrain from deviating from the easiest ib subjects or offering details unrelated to the IB command term. Keep your writing succinct and focused because examiners are searching for exact, focused answers that directly address the question.
The secret to writing exam answers that satisfy examiners is to become proficient in IB command terms. You can enhance your performance and raise your chances of receiving high grades by being aware of the requirements for each term and practicing their application. With the help of our resources, begin practicing right now and build the confidence you require to succeed in your IB exams.
