Analyse the question
Use question analysis for assignments, exam essays and short answer questions.
Apply the following steps to all question analysis: It is important that you interpret the question accurately and clearly. First impressions can lead to an error which may fail to meet your marker's expectations. In most of your university essay questions, you will find one or more instruction words that tell you what your essay should do. Therefore, to interpret the question accurately, you must understand exactly what these words mean. Topic words (or keywords) are usually easy to locate. They tell you what you have to write about. Use these keywords to find information on your topic. Restricting words are words or phrases that narrow the topic and make it more specific. Geographical location and date are both common restrictions. Once you have analysed the question, check your understanding. Try to rewrite the question usingInstruction word Definition Account for Give reasons for something. Analyse Focus on the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of an issue or topic. Do not simply describe or
summarise.Compare Find similarities and differences between two or more objects, ideas, events or
theories.Contrast Similar to compare, but differences should be emphasised Criticise Assess the merit of something. Consider both good points and bad points and give the
results of your analysis.Define Give precise meanings with key details. Examples may be useful. Describe Recall specific details about size, cost, texture, appearance etc. Discuss Present a point of view after considering both sides of an issue or question. Your
opinion should be supported by arguments and evidence.Evaluate Consider both strengths and weaknesses and make a judgement. Explain Relate how something happens in the order in which it occurs, or, clarify reasons,
causes and effects.Illustrate Use examples to demonstrate a point. Interpret Express in your own words. Examples may be useful. List Write your answer as an itemized series which may be in point form. Outline Provide main points and leave out minor details Prove Give factual evidence, examples or clear logical reasons which demonstrate the
validity of a statement/idea.Relate Tell the story in clear sequence, or, show how things are connected or similar to each
other.Review Examine a subject critically, analysing and commenting on the main points. State Present the main points in brief, clear sequence. Summarise Give the main points or facts in condensed form. To what extent Consider both sides, make a judgment and defend it. Similar to evaluate or discuss. Trace Relate the progress, development or history of a subject.
your own words by completing the following sentence in no more than 25 words. E.g. The question
is asking me to . . .