One of the key things our tutors teach students who are preparing for their WACE exams is making sure they are aware of the key words used for question formulation for WACE exams.
Mastering the command terms is very important for exam technique. It can be the difference between getting a mark and not.
Why is knowing the command terms important?
Each command term represents a level of cognitive demand, which SCSA uses to assess a range of skills, from basic recall to complex evaluation. If you’re asked to analyse but only describe, you’re not demonstrating the higher-order thinking the question requires.
Ultimately, the command terms will point you in the right direction with what is required in your answers. By understanding the command terms you can always feel comfortable that you understand what is required from the question.
Even if you do not get the answer 100% correctly, if you answer it in the correct way you may be eligible for partial marks.
Mastering the VCE command terms will make you answer questions quicker and get more marks
What are the command terms?
These are the command terms for WACE as outline by the SCSA:
Understanding the command terms
Not all the command terms require the same depth in answer. Some command terms only require short answers where others want you to elaborate deeply.
Below we have group the command terms into categories to help you further your mastery of then:
Level 1: Identify and Recall
Terms included: define, identify, list, name, recall, recount, state
- Test recognition and recall of facts or terms
- Require short, precise answers (often 1–2 marks)
- No explanation or reasoning needed
- Focus on accuracy and clarity
Example (WACE Biology):
"Define homeostasis”
Level 2: Describe and Outline
Terms included: account of, clarify, contrast, describe, distinguish, outline, suggest, summarise
- Require detailed and structured information
- May involve sequencing, comparing, or listing characteristics
- Typically worth 2–4 marks
- Use full sentences and clear structure
Example (WACE Modern History):
“Describe the main features of the Treaty of Versailles.”
Level 3: Explain and Demonstrate Understanding
Terms included: account for, calculate, demonstrate, explain, interpret
- Show understanding of cause and effect, reasoning, or calculations
- May involve applying formulas or principles
- Connect ideas using logical links (e.g. because, therefore)
- Worth 3–5 marks typically
Example (WACE Chemistry):
“Explain why the rate of reaction increases with temperature.”
Level 4: Analyse and Apply
Terms included: analyse, apply, compare, construct, contrast, deduce, discuss, examine, extrapolate, infer, predict, synthesise
- Require interpretation, problem-solving, or breaking down of ideas
- Look for connections, relationships, or implications
- Use a structured response and support with evidence or examples
- Typically higher-mark questions
Example (WACE English):
“Analyse how language is used to position the reader in a persuasive text.”
Level 5: Evaluate and Justify
Terms included: assess, evaluate, justify, persuade, propose, recommend
- Involve making a judgement or forming an argument
- Weigh up pros and cons, strengths and limitations
- Require evidence, reasoning, and a final conclusion
- Use a clear structure: introduction, discussion, and conclusion
Example (WACE Economics):
Evaluate the effectiveness of fiscal policy in reducing unemployment in Australia.
Final thoughts
So much of succeeding in the WACE comes down to exam technique — and a huge part of that is understanding how examiners mark your responses. That’s where command terms come in. They’re not there to trick you — in fact, they’re giving you a blueprint for how to answer. The clearer your understanding of each term, the more confidently and accurately you can respond to any question that comes your way.
❗ Pro Tip: Before you begin writing any response in an exam, underline or highlight the command term. Make sure you know exactly what it’s asking you to do — this could be the difference between a 4 and a 6 on a short-answer question.
Study Strategies for Mastering Command Terms
To make command terms second nature, use the following strategies in your study routine:
- Flashcards: create flashcards with the command term on one side and its definition + a subject-specific example on the back. Quiz yourself regularly.
- Practice questions: use past exams and isolate the command terms. Ask yourself, "What is this question really asking me to do?" Then write a targeted response based on that command.
- Group discussions: get together with classmates and take turns interpreting and answering questions based on different command terms. Explaining your reasoning out loud helps deepen your understanding.
- Practice makes perfect: when doing any practice — even simple revision — get into the habit of saying: What is the command term here? What does that mean for how I answer? This builds exam-ready habits.
Bottom line? Mastering the WACE command terms won’t just help you study better — it will help you answer quicker, respond more accurately, and ultimately score higher in your exams.
Start now. Learn them. Practice them. And use them to unlock every mark you deserve. ✅
