How to answer GCSE exam questions — command words explained

Examevo Team · 2 April 2026 · 7 min read

Command words tell you how much detail to write and what type of thinking examiners reward. Losing marks because you described when the question asked you to explain is one of the most common avoidable errors across GCSE subjects.

Describe

Say what you see or what happens — features, steps, or observations — without giving reasons. In Biology, describe the trend in a graph; in Geography, describe the distribution shown on a map.

Explain

Give reasons. Link cause and effect using because, therefore, or which means. Examiners want a logical chain, not a list of unrelated facts.

Compare / Contrast

Refer to both items in the question. A structured table or paired sentences (A whereas B…) helps secure comparison marks.

Evaluate / Assess

Weigh strengths and weaknesses, then reach a supported judgement. In extended writing subjects, a clear conclusion that answers the question directly often separates level 3 from level 4 responses.

Calculate / Show that

Show every step of working — method marks depend on it. For show that questions, work backwards from the given answer and prove each line is justified. Examiners cannot award marks for a correct final number alone.