Process word
|
Meaning
|
Account for
|
explain, clarify, give reasons for |
Analyse
|
resolve into its component parts examine critically or minutely |
Assess
|
determine the value of, weigh up (see also Evaluate) |
Compare
|
look for similarities and differences between examples perhaps reach conclusion about which is preferable and justify this
clearly
|
Contrast
|
set in opposition in order to bring out the differences sharply |
Compare and contrast
|
find some points of common ground between x and y and show where or how they differ |
Criticise
|
make a judgement backed by a discussion of the evidence of reasoning involved about the merit of theories or opinions or about
the truth of assertions
|
Define
|
state the exact meaning of a word or phrase, in some cases it may be necessary or desirable to examine different possible
or often used definitions
|
Describe
|
give a detailed account of |
Discuss
|
explain, then give two sides of the issue and any implications |
Distinguish/Differentiate between
|
look for differences between |
Evaluate
|
make an appraisal of the worth/validity/effectiveness of something in the light of its truth or usefulness (see also Assess) |
Examine the argument that
|
look in details at this line of argument |
Explain
|
give details about how and why something is so |
How far / To what extent
|
usually involves looking at evidence / arguments for and against and weighing them up |
Illustrate
|
make clear and explicit, usually requires the use of carefully chosen examples |
Justify
|
show adequate grounds for decisions or conclusions and answer the main objections likely to be made about them |
Outline
|
give the main features or general principles of a subject, omitting minor details and emphasising structure and arrangement |
State
|
present in a brief, clear form |
Summarise
|
give a concise, clear explanation or account of the topic, presenting the chief factors and omitting minor details and examples
(see also Outline)
|
What arguments can be made for and against this view?
|
look at both sides of this argument |