Why command terms matter in IB Diploma

Many IB students lose marks not because they lack knowledge, but because they misread the question and respond in the wrong way. The command term—the instructional verb at the start of each question (e.g. State, Describe, Explain, Evaluate)—tells you exactly what the examiner wants. The IB uses the same command terms across subjects, but each subject may emphasise different ones. Understanding them is essential for Papers 1, 2, 3 and IA.

IB DP command terms by cognitive level

The IB organises command terms by objective level (1 = Knowledge, 2 = Application, 3 = Synthesis/Evaluation). Higher-level terms expect more developed answers.

Level 1: Knowledge and understanding

Command term	Definition	What to do
Define	Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity	One clear definition.
Draw	Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph	Clear, labelled diagram; use ruler for straight lines.
Identify	Provide an answer from a number of possibilities	Pick out or name.
Label	Add labels to a diagram	Add appropriate labels.
List	Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation	Brief points; no expansion.
State	Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation	Short, direct. No reasons.
Classify	Arrange or order by class or category	Group into categories.

Level 2: Application and analysis

Command term	Definition	What to do
Annotate	Add brief notes to a diagram or graph	Add short explanatory notes.
Apply	Use an idea, equation, principle, theory or law in relation to a given problem or issue	Use knowledge in context.
Calculate	Obtain a numerical answer showing the relevant stages in the working	Show working; include units.
Describe	Give a detailed account	Account of features/process; structured.
Distinguish	Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items	Focus on differences.
Estimate	Obtain an approximate value	Rough value with reasoning.
Outline	Give a brief account or summary	Main points only.
Present	Offer for display, observation, examination or consideration	Present clearly.
Design	Produce a plan, simulation or model	Plan or design.

Level 3: Synthesis and evaluation

Command term	Definition	What to do
Analyse	Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure	Break down; show relationships.
Comment	Give a judgment based on a given statement or result of a calculation	Your view with evidence.
Compare	Give an account of the similarities between two (or more) items	Use comparative language.
Compare and contrast	Give an account of similarities and differences	Both; refer to both throughout.
Contrast	Give an account of the differences between two (or more) items	Differences only.
Deduce	Reach a conclusion from the information given	Conclude from evidence.
Demonstrate	Make clear by reasoning or evidence, illustrating with examples	Prove with examples.
Derive	Manipulate a mathematical relationship to give a new equation or relationship	Show derivation.
Discuss	Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, supported by evidence	Both sides; conclusion with evidence.
Evaluate	Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations	Judge with strengths and limitations.
Examine	Consider an argument or concept in a way that uncovers the assumptions and interrelationships	Unpack assumptions.
Explain	Give a detailed account including reasons or causes	Reasons and causes; use “because”.
Formulate	Express precisely and systematically the relevant concept(s) or argument(s)	Precise, systematic expression.
Interpret	Use knowledge and understanding to recognize trends and draw conclusions	Recognise trends; conclude.
Investigate	Observe, study, or make a detailed and systematic examination, in order to establish facts	Systematic enquiry.
Justify	Give valid reasons or evidence to support an answer or conclusion	Back up with evidence.
Predict	Give an expected result	Use knowledge to forecast.
Suggest	Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer	Propose; apply to context.
To what extent	Consider the merits or otherwise of an argument or concept. Opinions and conclusions should be supported with evidence	Judge degree; support with evidence.

Source: IB Diploma Programme subject guides; IB Computer Science guide (command terms glossary)

Practical tips

1. Underline the command term before answering
2. Check the mark allocation—1 mark = one point; extended questions use levels of response
3. Describe = what/how; Explain = why; Evaluate/Discuss = judgement with evidence
4. To what extent requires a degree of judgement, not just description
5. Past papers and mark schemes show how each term is rewarded

How Tutopiya helps

Tutopiya supports IB Diploma Programme with subject specialists who understand command terms and IB assessment. Explore IB resources or book a free trial.

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Based on IB Diploma Programme subject guides and command terms glossary. Check your subject guide for subject-specific emphasis.