Interpreting the question: Developing a plan

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Process words or keywords Now that you have broken down the assignment title/question are you clear about what it is you are being asked to do? Is it to gather research from a variety of outside sources and present a coherent picture? Is it to take material you have been learning in class and apply it to a new situation? Is it to prove a point one way or another? Key words from the assignment title can help you figure this out. Below are some common active verbs relating to the process the assignment is expecting you to follow, together with explanations of what each word or phrase is asking you to do. Each process requires a different mode of writing.  This will be discussed in more detail in the unit, ‘Answering the question: structure, argument, analysis.’ Process word     Meaning Define     give the exact meaning of a word or phrase, perhaps examine different possible or often used definitions Assess     determine the value of, weigh up - see also Evaluate How far / to what extent    look at evidence / arguments for and against and weigh them up in terms of their value Contrast    set in opposition in order to bring out the differences - you may also note that there are similarities Give an account of / account for     explain the reasons for / clarify / give reasons for Analyse     resolve into its component parts, examine critically or minutely Compare    look for and show the similarities and differences between examples, perhaps reach a conclusion about which is preferable and justify this Describe     give a detailed account of Explain     give details about how and why something is so Distinguish / differentiate between     look for differences between Criticise     make a judgement backed by a reasoned discussion of the evidence involved, describe the merit of theories or opinions or the truth of assertions Discuss    explain, then give two sides of the issue and any implications Justify     give reasons for a point of view, decisions or conclusions, and mention any main objections or arguments against Summarise     give a clear, short description, explanation or account, presenting the chief factors and omitting minor details and examples - see also Outline Compare and contrast     find some points of common ground between two or more items and show where or how they are different Examine the argument that    look in detail at this line of argument Outline     give the main features or general principles of a subject, omitting minor details and emphasising structure and arrangement Evaluate     make an appraisal of the worth / validity / effectiveness of something (but not so that it is your personal opinion) and give evidence from programme materials - see also Assess State     present in a brief, clear way Illustrate      make clear and explicit, and give carefully chosen examples