Command Words and What They Mean

Command words tell you exactly what the examiner expects in your answer. Misreading or ignoring the command word is one of the most common reasons students lose marks in GCSE Biology. Two students can know the same science, but the one who responds correctly to the command word will score higher.

This lesson covers every command word used in Edexcel GCSE Biology, with worked examples showing how the same topic changes depending on the command word.

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State / Name / Give / Identify

What it means: Write a short, factual answer. No explanation is needed.

How many marks: Usually 1 mark per point.

What to write: A word, phrase, or short sentence. Do not waste time explaining.

Examples

• "State the name of the organelle where aerobic respiration takes place." → Mitochondria
• "Name the type of cell division that produces gametes." → Meiosis
• "Give one function of the cell membrane." → Controls what enters and leaves the cell
• "Identify the independent variable in this experiment." → Temperature