IB DP Mathematics: Command Terms
IB DP Mathematics: Command terms
IB Diploma Programme Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches, Applications and Interpretation) uses the standard IB command terms. Mathematics emphasises Calculate, Show, Prove, Derive and Find. Clear working and correct notation are essential.
Key command terms for Mathematics
| Command term | What to do | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| State | Give value or expression | Showing working when not asked |
| Write | Give equation or expression | Incomplete |
| Write down | Give without working | Showing unnecessary working |
| Find | Obtain answer; show relevant working | No working |
| Calculate | Numerical answer; show stages | No working; wrong precision |
| Show | Prove with full working | Skipping steps |
| Prove | Logical argument; each step justified | Assuming what we prove |
| Derive | Obtain from given/known results | Stating without derivation |
| Determine | Obtain the only possible answer | Multiple answers |
| Sketch | Approximate graph; key features | Precise plot when sketch asked |
| Draw | Accurate graph/diagram | Unlabelled |
| Solve | Find value(s) satisfying equation | Incomplete solution |
| Verify | Check by substitution | Proving |
| Hence | Use previous result | Starting from scratch |
| Hence or otherwise | Use previous result or different method | Ignoring “hence” |
Tips for Mathematics exams
- Show working—marks for method even if answer wrong
- Hence—must use the previous part
- Prove—show each step; no gaps
- Sketch— intercepts, asymptotes, shape; not plot every point
- Precision—round to required accuracy (e.g. 3 significant figures)
- Notation—use correct symbols (e.g. ∈, ⊆, ⇒)
- Past papers—check mark schemes for alternative methods
How Tutopiya helps
Tutopiya supports IB DP Mathematics (AA and AI, SL and HL). Explore IB resources or book a free trial.
Based on IB Diploma Programme Mathematics subject guides. Check the guide for subject-specific command terms.
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