18 command terms that IB students must know to survive IB

In International Baccalaureate (IB) program, students often encounter specific terms related to academic tasks and assessments.

It is vital to clearly differentiate these words in order to get top bands in IB DP.

Here are 18 common terms that IB students should be familiar with:

1. Analyze
2. Evaluate
3. State
4. Explain
5. Compare
6. Constrast
7. Define
8. Illustrate
9. Interpret
10. Justify
11. Outline
12. Summarize
13. Discuss
14. Assess
15. Examine
16. Elaborate
17. Critique
18. Demonstrate

How many words did you know from the list?

These are the definitions of command terms!

1. Analyze: Break down a complex idea or concept into its components, examine the relationships between them, and explore how they contribute to the overall understanding.
2. Evaluate: Assess the strengths and weaknesses of an argument, theory, or concept. Consider evidence, alternative viewpoints, and draw conclusions based on reasoned judgment.
3. State: Clearly express information, facts, or ideas in a straightforward and concise manner without necessarily providing analysis or evaluation.
4. Explain: Provide a detailed account or clarification of a concept, idea, or process. Offer reasons or mechanisms to support understanding.
5. Compare: Identify similarities and differences between two or more items, ideas, or concepts, highlighting key points of comparison.
6. Contrast: Emphasize the differences between two or more items, ideas, or concepts, pointing out distinct features.
7. Define: Clearly state the meaning of a term or concept, often providing a precise and concise explanation.
8. Illustrate: Use examples, diagrams, or other means to demonstrate and clarify a point or concept.
9. Interpret: Offer a personal explanation or understanding of a piece of information, drawing connections and making sense of the content.
10. Justify: Provide reasons or evidence to support a particular point of view, decision, or action.
11. Outline: Present the main points or features of a topic in a systematic and organized manner, typically in a structured format.
12. Summarize: Provide a brief, condensed version of the main points, capturing the essential elements of a text, argument, or concept.
13. Discuss: Consider different aspects of a topic, presenting arguments for and against, and explore various perspectives before drawing a conclusion.
14. Assess: Evaluate the nature or quality of something, considering its strengths and weaknesses and making a judgment based on criteria.
15. Examine: Investigate or scrutinize in detail, looking closely at the elements or components of a concept or situation.
16. Elaborate: Provide additional details, explanations, or examples to enhance the understanding of a point or concept.
17. Critique: Evaluate and provide a detailed analysis of the merits and shortcomings of a particular argument, theory, or work.
18. Demonstrate: Show evidence or give examples to support a claim or to prove the validity of a concept or idea.