Command Words
Science Exam Techniques
Calculate Use numbers given in the question to
work out the answer.
Compare Describe the similarities and/or
differences between things, not just write about
one.
Describe Recall some facts, events or process in an
accurate way.
Determine Use given data or information to obtain
and answer.
Evaluate Use the information supplied as well as
their knowledge and understanding to consider
evidence for and against.
Explain Make something clear, or state the reasons
for something happening.
Justify Use evidence from the information supplied
to support an answer.
Plan Write a method.
Predict Give a plausible outcome
Suggest Apply your knowledge and understanding
to a new situation.
Use The answer must be based on the information
given in the question.
On the Day!
Prefix
Multiple
Standard
1. Read the Question! If you are not sure
form
then read it again.
centi
1 cm = 0.01 m
x 10 -2
2. Don’t use the words IT or THEY – state
(cm)
exactly what you mean or you might lose
marks!
milli
1 mm = 0.001
x 10 -3
(mm)
m
3. Always go over your answers at the
end – you might think of something else micro ( 1 𝛍m = 0.000
x 10 -6
for an extra mark!
001 m
𝛍m)
4. If it says “tick one box” or “draw 3
nano
1nm = 0.000
x 10 -9
lines”, make you sure you have used the
(nm)
000 001 m
right number!!
Don’t forget to check the units of
5. Use bullet points to structure your
the question! You might have to
answer!
convert them in to the final
Calculate the mean
answer!
(1 + 2 + 3) ÷ 3 = 2
Use a ruler
If there is an anomalous result, this must
to interpret
be ignored when calculating the mean.
the data on
An anomalous result doesn’t fit the
a graph!
pattern of the results!
Reaction Time (seconds)
Person
PREFIXES
1
2
3
Mean
A
0.56
0.52
0.50
0.53
B
0.45
1.22
0.50
0.48
When drawing a line of best fit, it can be a curve!