Before writing an essay response, it is important to understand exactly what is being asked.
There are certain key words in every question that tell you what information the professor is asking for and how to format your response.
This list of common key words and their definitions may help answer that common question, “So what am I really supposed to do?”
- analyze
- Take apart and examine closely.
- compare
- Look for similarities and differences; stress similarities.
- contrast
- Look for differences and similarities; stress differences.
- critique
- Point out both positive and negative aspects.
- define
- Explain what something means.
- describe
- Show what something looks like, including physical features. It can also mean to give an account or narrate.
- discuss
- Argue for and against. Mention different groups or individuals involved and the viewpoint of each. State evidence supporting a viewpoint, as well as evidence contrary to it.
- evaluate
- Make a value judgment according to some clear criteria.
- explain
- Clarify or interpret how something works or happens.
- illustrate
- Show by means of example, picture, or diagram.
- interpret
- Explain how or why; implies some subjective judgments.
- justify
- Argue in support of something to find positive reasons.
- list
- Order facts, attributes, or items in sequence. This usually means to arrange certain facts in 1, 2, 3 or bulleted order.
- outline
- Organize according to hierarchy and/or category.
- prove
- Demonstrate by use of logic, fact, or example.
- review
- Reexamine the main points or highlights of something.
- state
- Reiterate a point or series of points from the text.
- summarize
- Present the main points.
- synthesize
- Combine or pull together pieces or concepts.
- trace
- Present an outline; show a sequence of how or why something occurs or happens.
January 2005
More Writing Help
The Kathleen Jones White Writing Center provides tutoring services, workshops, and writing resources.
Tutoring
- In-Person: 203 Stabley Library
- Online Tutoring: Use the online writing center.
Workshops
- Instructors: Request a workshop for your class.
- Students: Attend a Wednesday-night workshop.
- Online Workshops: APA Documentation, MLA Documentation.