MYP Command Terms: What “Analyse”, “Evaluate” and “Justify” Really Want
11 July 2026 · 5 min read
Command terms are the verbs that tell you exactly what an MYP question wants. Misreading them is one of the most common — and most avoidable — ways to lose marks. Here is what the key ones mean.
Lower-order (knowledge & comprehension)
- •State / Identify — give a brief, specific answer, no explanation.
- •Describe — give a detailed account, but not reasons.
- •Outline — give a brief summary of the main points.
Middle-order (application & analysis)
- •Explain — give reasons or causes; say why or how.
- •Analyse — break something into parts and show how they relate.
- •Compare / Contrast — give similarities and/or differences, point by point.
Higher-order (synthesis & evaluation)
- •Evaluate — weigh strengths and limitations and reach a supported judgement.
- •Justify — give valid reasons to support a choice or conclusion.
- •To what extent — argue how far something is true, with evidence on both sides.
The one habit that lifts marks
Underline the command term before you write, then check your answer actually performs that verb. An “evaluate” answer that only describes will cap in the lower bands no matter how much you write.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between “explain” and “analyse”?
“Explain” asks for reasons or causes (why/how). “Analyse” asks you to break something into parts and show how those parts relate or contribute to a whole.
What does “to what extent” mean in MYP?
It asks you to argue how far a statement is true — present evidence for and against, then reach a supported, balanced judgement.
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