Command Words

Find

Determine the value or solution. Working not always required, but always shown by competent students.

Definition

"Find" is the most general command word. It can be one mark (one-line answer) or several marks (multi-step). Always check the mark allocation: 1 mark = answer only; 2+ marks = show working.

Example

Find the value of x when 3x + 7 = 22. Working: 3x = 15, x = 5.

Related terms

Calculate

Work out an exact value using the given numbers. Show your method.

Work out

Show how you reached the answer. Synonymous with "calculate" but emphasises the working.

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