Cambridge O Level Success Guide

Key ConceptsThis chapter covers how Cambridge examiners award marks and how command words control what you must write. You need to match your answer to the mark scheme: the command word tells you the depth and type of detail required.

Examiners award marks for specific evidence, not for general statements.

Command words control task type (e.g., describe vs explain vs compare).

Marks usually match points: more marks often means more separate ideas or steps.

Clarity beats length: write what the command word asks for, then stop.

Use the right level of detail:

Describe = factual features

Explain = reasons/causes with linked logic

Compare = similarities and differences

Assess/Discuss/“How far…” = balanced judgement with support

Before you continue, check this:

Can you explain the difference between “describe” and “explain” in an exam answer?

Key TermsCommand word - the instruction in the question that tells you what kind of answer to produce.

Mark allocation - the number of marks given for a part of a question (often linked to how many points are expected).

Evidence - facts, examples, calculations, or named processes that directly support your points.

Point - a single distinct idea that could earn a separate mark.

Full explanation - a reason linked to an effect (not just “because” without further detail).

Judgement - a conclusion that weighs evidence (used in “How far do you agree…?” style questions).

Active RecallCommand word - __________

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Mark allocation - __________

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Evidence - __________

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Point - __________

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Full explanation - __________

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Judgement - __________

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Worked ExamplesExample 1: “Describe two …” (straight facts)Question: Describe two features of an exam response that earns marks.

Identify two features that are exam-relevant.

Write each feature as its own clear statement (each can be a separate point).

Use precise wording (avoid vague claims like “be good”).

Feature 1: ____________

Feature 2: ____________

Now you tryQuestion: Describe two ways command words affect how you write an answer.

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Example 2: “Explain why …” (cause + effect)Question: Explain why using the wrong command word can lose marks.

State the cause: the answer type won’t match what the question demands.

Link to effect: markers cannot award marks for missing evidence or missing reasoning.

Add one example: e.g., describe vs explain mismatch.

Cause: ____________

Effect: ____________

Example: ____________

Now you tryQuestion: Explain why a brief answer can still lose marks even if it is “correct”.

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Example 3: “How far do you agree …?” (balanced judgement)Question: How far do you agree that “evidence is the most important factor in scoring high marks”?

Take a position (agree partly/mostly).

Provide supporting evidence (2-3 points).

Add a counterpoint (what else matters: command words, structure, explanation).

End with a judgement that weighs both sides.

Agreement: ____________

Evidence: ____________

Counterpoint: ____________

Judgement: ____________

Now you tryQuestion: How far do you agree that “writing more words always increases marks”?

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Practice Questions(Easy) (4) Describe two ways command words can change the way you respond.

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