IB Economics Command Terms Explained

Command terms are the verbs at the start of every IB Economics exam question. They tell you exactly what the examiner expects — and ignoring them is one of the most common reasons students lose marks.

Why command terms matter in Economics

Each command term requires a different depth and style of response. Writing an evaluation when asked to "define" wastes time. Writing a definition when asked to "evaluate" loses most of the marks.

Learning to match your response to the command term is one of the fastest ways to improve your Economics score.

Low-demand terms (1-2 marks)

• Define: Give the precise meaning of a term — one or two sentences
• State: Give a specific answer — no explanation needed
• List: Provide a sequence of items
• Identify: Name or mention a specific factor

Medium-demand terms (3-6 marks)

• Describe: Give a detailed account — what happens
• Outline: Give a brief summary of the main points
• Explain: Give reasons why — cause and effect with detail
• Distinguish: Make clear the differences between concepts

Practise using command terms correctly in your answers and get instant marking feedback that highlights whether you addressed the command term fully.

High-demand terms (8-15 marks)

• Analyse: Break down into components, identify relationships and patterns
• Evaluate: Make a judgement based on evidence — requires balanced assessment
• Discuss: Present multiple arguments and reach a conclusion
• To what extent: Assess the degree to which something is true
• Compare and contrast: Show similarities AND differences

How to identify command terms quickly

Before answering any question, circle the command term and the topic. Ask yourself: "What type of response does this need?" Then structure your answer accordingly.

For a deeper understanding of IB command terms across all subjects, see our complete command terms guide.

For more exam strategies, see our guides on How to Write a 10-Mark Answer and Evaluation Technique.