Student can choose the right academic verb for different explanation tasks.
Explain vs define vs describe vs demonstrate.
Have you ever written a long answer, but still lost marks? Usually, it's because you answered the wrong command word.
Let's use the topic of Photosynthesis to see how the exact same concept requires completely different answers depending on the verb used.
Gallery showing one object being defined, described, illustrated, and explained.
How the same subject changes based on the exam verb.
Word → when to use → example.
Use when an exact meaning is needed.
“Define the term Democracy.”
Use when details and features matter.
“Describe the water cycle.”
Use when reasoning is required.
“Explain why ice floats.”
Use when proof or showing is needed.
“Demonstrate Newton’s First Law.”
Use when examples make the idea clearer.
“Illustrate the effects of poverty.”
Use when an idea needs to be made clear.
“Clarify the author’s argument.”
Use when deeper details are needed.
“Elaborate on your hypothesis.”
Use when only the key ideas are needed.
“Summarise the plot of Macbeth.”
These concepts show us the different ways we can share information with others, from giving a simple definition to breaking down complex ideas.
To define is to set clear boundaries for what a word means.
To describe is to list the details and qualities of an object.
To explain is to show the inner workings or the "why" behind something.
To demonstrate is to show how an action is performed through movement.
To illustrate is to use a picture to make an idea easier to see.
To clarify is to make a blurry or confusing idea easy to understand.
To elaborate is to add more layers and details to a basic thought.
To summarize is to take a lot of information and keep only the most important parts.
Match define/describe/explain/demonstrate to answer style.
Terms
Definitions
Use correct explanation verb.
Welcome to our essay writing workshop, class. Before you introduce complex arguments, you must first your key terms so the reader understands your baseline. Once your foundation is set, do not just list your points; you need to on each idea with strong evidence and real-world examples. If your logic starts to get too complicated, take a moment to your stance by rephrasing it in simpler terms. Finally, in your concluding paragraph, be sure to the main arguments without introducing any new information. Mastering these four steps will significantly improve your academic writing.
Student rewrites a vague answer using clarify/elaborate/illustrate.
Add deeper context to the basic statement.
Provide a specific example from the 'book' to prove your point.