There are certain keyphrases in examination questions that must be understood first before one can answer them. Some include; Define, explain, state, list, give, enumerate, solve, etc. We have compiled the meaning of these key items to help candidates during exams
There is a saying which states that there is no communication without questions and answers. During exams, candidates are asked different kinds of questions. Understanding the question gives candidates the ability to answer them easily.
1. Define
This simply means to explain and describe the meaning and exact limits of something. It must be short and brief.
2. List
This simply means to give or state in numbers the items to the given question. They are usually short answers. It is also a series of names or other items written or printed together in a meaningful grouping or sequence so as to constitute a record.
List also means present concise, itemised information in bullet points or table form. Outline – Give an overview of a subject in an organised way, without going into too much detail. This is similar to state.
3. What Is
This is what most students get it wrong. Most candidates believe that the word ‘what’ in exams means to give the short possible answer. Well, this is the opposite of what most candidates believe. What actually means to give in details the answer to a given question. It questions detailed information and also examples. For Example, whan one is given a question stating ‘What is Education?’, the answer to this must be in details. Candidates should state the forms of education in the definition as well
4. Enumerate
Enumerate means to name or list things one by one. Enumerate is typically used as a more formal alternative to the verb list. It emphasizes the fact that things are being specifically identified and listed one at a time. Less commonly, enumerate simply means to count
5. Explain
This simply means to expound, explicate, elucidate, interpret mean to make something clear or understandable. explain implies a making plain or intelligible what is not immediately obvious or entirely known.
6. Solve
This means to find an answer to, explanation for, or means of effectively dealing with a problem or mystery. The word solve originally came from the Latin solvere, which meant “to loosen or untie.” If you think of any kind of complex problem as a knot, then the original definition of solve still makes sense. This is usually used in mathematics.
