12 Words Commonly Used in Test Questions

These 12 words are very often part of the instructions on tests. Students do better if you know what to do when they see one of these words on a test. Spend a little time familiarizing yourself with these words and their meaning.

Trace- follow, track, find clues, list steps, outline, to make a graphic record
Analyze- break up the problem, explain each part, determine the relationship of each part
Infer- assume, imply, read between the lines, derive a conclusion from facts and evidence
Evaluate- math=solve or determine the value, rate, judge, look at both sides
Formulate- create, build, plan
Describe- who, what, when, how, why, supporting statements, give an account
Support- provide evidence, back it up, examples, details, reasons why
Explain- who, what, when, how, why, supporting statements
Summarize- short version, low down, brief, state the main idea
Compare- tell how things are alike
Contrast- tell how things are different
Predict- forecast, foretell, what is going to happen