Power Verbs
Analyze
To break apart and study the
pieces; tell why.
Compare
To use examples to show how
things are alike.
Contrast
To use examples to show
how things are different.
Criticize
To show good and bad points;
to give your judgment or
reasoned opinion.
Define
To give a clear definition or
meaning.
Describe
To tell all about it.
Discuss
To talk about an issue from all
sides; explain the pros and
cons.
Evaluate
To judge in your own words;
to show good and bad points
with supporting evidence.
Explain
To tell about it. Put into your
own words.
Formulate
Develop, create, put together,
give steps.
Illustrate
To show by means of picture,
diagram, or some other
graphic aid.
Infer
A good guess. To read
between the lines.
List
List of words, sentences, or
comments.
Predict
What do you think will
happen next? An educated
guess. Tell Why!
Summarize
Make a long story short, but
include the main ideas. Give
short version
Support
To give reasons and facts why.
Trace
To outline; list the steps from
beginning to the end.