Purpose of this Toolkit - Griffith University

WRITTEN COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Understanding the terminology used in
assignments
Reference list of commonly used terms in writing assignments
Account for
Give an explanation as to why
Analyse 1. Examine closely
2. Examine x in terms of its components and show how they
interrelate
Assess
Decide the value of
Compare
Discuss x and y in terms of their similarities and differences
Contrast
Discuss x and y in terms of their differences
Critically
evaluate
Criticise
Articulate the arguments on both sides of an issue by arguing for and
against
Make judgments, or show the relative merits of an argument
Define 1. Explain (make clear) what is meant by
2. Use a definition or definitions to explore the concept of
Describe
Present an account of
Differentiate Discriminate between two or more factors
Discuss 1. Make x your subject
2. Consider and offer some interpretation or evaluation of
Enumerate
Give an item-by-item account of
Evaluate
Give a reasoned appraisal or assessment of the facts or argument
presented
Examine
Inspect and report on in detail
Explain 1. Make clear the details of
2. Show the reason for, or underlying cause of, or the means by
which
Illustrate
Offer an example or examples to
1. show how/that
2. make concrete the concept of
Indicate
Focus attention on
Interpret
Explain or bring out the particular meaning
Outline
Go through the main features of
Prove
Show by logical argument
Review 1. Report the chief facts about
2. Offer a critique about
Summarise
Provide a brief account or an abridged version
Adapted from: Peters, P. (1985). Strategies for Student Writers: A Guide to Writing Essays, Tutorial Papers, Exam Papers and
Reports. John Wiley & Sons Australia: Brisbane, p.23 and Dwyer, J. (1993). The Business Communication Handbook (3 rd ed.).
New York: Prentice Hall.
Student handout—Terminology
29