Why command words matter in AQA GCSE

Many students lose marks not because they lack knowledge, but because they misread the question and respond in the wrong way. The command word—the instructing word at the start of each question (e.g. Describe, State, Explain, Evaluate)—tells you exactly what the examiner wants. AQA uses command words that can vary in meaning between subjects, so checking subject-specific guidance is important.

AQA GCSE command words (Science)

AQA provides subject-specific command word lists. For Science (Biology 8461, Chemistry 8462, Physics 8463, Combined Science Trilogy 8464, Synergy 8465), these are the key definitions:

Command word	AQA Science definition	What to do
State / Give / Name	Only a short answer required; not an explanation	Brief, direct. No expansion.
Define	Specify the meaning of something	One clear definition.
Describe	Recall facts, events or process in an accurate way	Account with key features. No “why”.
Explain	Make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening	Give reasons. Use “because”.
Compare	Describe similarities and/or differences between things, not just one	Use comparative language.
Suggest	Apply knowledge and understanding to a new situation	Apply to the scenario; propose.
Evaluate	Use information supplied, plus knowledge, to consider evidence for and against; make a judgement	Judgement with evidence.
Calculate	Use numbers given to work out the answer	Show working; include units.
Draw	Produce or add to a diagram	Clear, labelled diagram.
Plot	Mark on a graph using data given	Accurate plotting; labelled axes.
Sketch	Draw approximately	Rough diagram; key features.
Predict	Give a plausible outcome	Use data/knowledge to forecast.
Identify	Name or otherwise characterise	Pick out or name.
Determine	Use given data to obtain an answer	Work out from information.
Estimate	Assign an approximate value	Rough value.
Complete	Write in the space provided (diagram, table, sentence)	Fill in gaps.
Balance	Balance a chemical equation	Correct stoichiometry.
Use	Answer must be based on information given in the question	Use the stimulus; no marks without it.
Show	Provide structured evidence to reach a conclusion	Prove with working.
Plan	Write a method	Design a procedure.
Design	Set out how something will be done	Outline approach.
Justify	Use evidence from information supplied to support an answer	Back up with evidence.

Source: AQA GCSE Science command words

AQA GCSE: subject-specific meanings

AQA states that command word meanings can vary between subjects. For example:

• Discuss (in humanities) may require modal verbs to show alternative arguments
• Explain needs causal discourse markers like “because” or “therefore”
• Always check your subject’s command word page on the AQA website

Practical tips

1. Underline the command word before answering
2. Check the mark allocation—1 mark = one point; 3–4 marks = developed points
3. Use past papers and mark schemes to see how each command word is rewarded
4. State/Give/Name = short; Describe = what/how; Explain = why
5. For Suggest: Apply to the specific situation in the question
6. For Use: Base your answer on the information given—no marks without it

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports AQA GCSE with subject specialists who understand command words and mark schemes. Explore GCSE resources or book a free trial.

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Based on AQA official command word resources. Check your subject specification for subject-specific guidance.