Physics Command Words

Understanding command words is essential for answering exam questions correctly. The command word tells you exactly what the examiner expects — if you misread it, you will lose marks even if your physics knowledge is correct. This lesson covers every command word used in the Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0) papers, with physics-specific worked examples.

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Why Command Words Matter

Every exam question begins with (or contains) a command word — an instruction telling you what kind of answer is required. If a question says "Describe" and you give an explanation, you may not get full marks. If it says "Calculate" and you estimate, you will score zero.

Exam Tip: Before writing anything, circle or underline the command word. This forces you to think about what type of answer is needed.

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State / Give / Name

What it means: Recall a fact. Write a short answer — a word, phrase, or single sentence. No explanation is needed.

Example:

State the unit of force.

Answer: Newton (N)

Example:

Give one example of a non-renewable energy resource.

Answer: Natural gas

Example:

Name the type of wave that cannot travel through a vacuum.