AQA GCSE command words

AQA provides command word lists for each subject. Definitions are taken from Ofqual’s official list where applicable, with subject-specific additions. Meanings can vary between subjects—always check your subject’s command word page on the AQA website.

Recall and short responses

Command word	AQA definition	What to do
State	Express in clear terms	Short, direct. No explanation.
Give	Only a short answer required	Brief recall or extraction.
Name	Short answer; often single word, phrase or sentence	Pick out or name.
Identify	Name or otherwise characterise	Pick out or name.
Define	Specify the meaning of something	One clear definition.
Choose	Select from a range of alternatives	Select one option.
Write	Short answer required	Brief response.

Account and description

Command word	AQA definition	What to do
Describe	Recall facts, events or process in an accurate way	Account of what/how. No reasons.
Outline	Set out main points	Main points only.
Complete	Write in the space provided	Fill in gaps.

Explanation and reasoning

Command word	AQA definition	What to do
Explain	Make something clear, or state the reasons for something happening	Reasons; use “because”.
Suggest	Apply knowledge and understanding to a new situation	Apply to scenario; propose.
Justify	Use evidence from information supplied to support an answer	Back up with evidence.
Predict	Give a plausible outcome	Use data/knowledge to forecast.

Comparison and analysis

Command word	AQA definition	What to do
Compare	Describe similarities and/or differences; not just one thing	Comparative language.
Evaluate	Use information supplied, plus knowledge, to consider evidence for and against; make a judgement	Judgement with evidence.

Calculations and practical

Command word	AQA definition	What to do
Calculate	Use numbers given to work out the answer	Show working; include units.
Determine	Use given data to obtain an answer	Work out from information.
Estimate	Assign an approximate value	Rough value.
Measure	Find an item of data for a given quantity	Obtain value.
Balance	Balance a chemical equation	Correct stoichiometry.
Draw	Produce or add to a diagram	Clear, labelled diagram.
Plot	Mark on a graph using data given	Accurate plotting.
Sketch	Draw approximately	Rough diagram.
Label	Provide appropriate names on a diagram	Add labels.
Plan	Write a method	Design a procedure.
Design	Set out how something will be done	Outline approach.
Show	Provide structured evidence to reach a conclusion	Prove with working.
Use	Answer must be based on information given	Use the stimulus.

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Definitions from AQA command word resources. Check your subject at aqa.org.uk for subject-specific guidance.

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