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Important Words in Essay Questions
The following words are used frequently in essay questions. Read them
and become comfortable with their meanings.
Analyze Explain the key
points, parts, or process and examine each part,
Apply Show the concept or function in a specific context.
Compare Show similarities
between concepts, objects, or events.
Contrast Show differences
between concepts, objects, or events.
Critique Present your view
or evaluation and give supporting evidence.
Define Give concise,
clear meanings and definitions.
Demonstrate Show function or how something works;
show understanding either
physically or through words.
Describe Present major characteristics or a
detailed accont.
Differentiate Distinguish between two or more concepts or
characteristics.
Discuss Give a general presentation of the issue
with examples or details to support main points.
Enumerate Present the items in a numbered list or an
outline.
Evaluate Carefully appraise the problem, citing
authorities.
Explain Make an idea or a concept clear, or give
a reason for an event.
Identify Label or explain.
Illustrate Clarify by presenting examples.
Interpret Explain the meaning of a concept or
problem.
Justify Give reasons for conclusions or argue
in support of a position.
List Enumerate or write a list of
points, one by one.
Outline Organize main points and subordinate
supporting points in a logical arrangement.
Prove Give factual evidence and logical
reasons that something is true.
Summarize Present core ideas in a brief review that
includes conclusions.
