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Command Words and Question-type Skills

46 flashcards (Year 11 and 12). Study these as flip cards Random

NESA command words

Identify Command word

Recognise and name.

Example: 'Identify one cause of a logic error.' Answer: one word or phrase (1 mark).

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q15b (3 marks): Testing and debugging

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Outline Command word

Sketch in general terms; indicate the main features of.

Example: 'Outline two ways to minimise load time.' Answer: short statement per point, no deep detail.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q16b (3 marks): Load times; 2025 HSC Q23a (3 marks): Social and ethical issues

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Describe Command word

Provide characteristics and features.

Example: 'Describe privacy by design.' Answer: what it is and what it does, with a detail or example.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q16c (3 marks): Privacy by design; 2025 HSC Q20 (3 marks): Session management

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Distinguish Command word

Note differences between things.

Example: 'Distinguish neural networks from AI.' Answer: name both and say what is different.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q25 (5 marks): Patterns in human behaviour; neural networks (virtual personal assistant)

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Compare Command word

Show how things are similar or different.

Example: 'Compare a PWA with an interactive website.' Answer: use both/whereas/however; give a similarity and a difference.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q16a (3 marks): Progressive web apps

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Contrast Command word

Show how things are different or opposite.

Example: 'Contrast Waterfall with Agile.' Answer: differences only.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q2 (1 mark): Software development approaches

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Explain Command word

Relate cause and effect; make the relationship between things evident; provide why and/or how.

Example: 'Explain why server-side programming is needed.' Answer: use because, therefore, which means.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q23b (3 marks): Server-side web programming; 2025 HSC Q27 (6 marks): Bias in AI (human bias and data set source bias)

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Discuss Command word

Identify issues and provide points for and/or against.

Example: 'Discuss the impact on workers.' Answer: give a positive AND a negative, then a short conclusion.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q24 (5 marks): Safety of workers (impact of automation); 2025 HSC Q25 (5 marks): Patterns in human behaviour; neural networks (virtual personal assistant)

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Analyse Command word

Identify components and the relationship between them; draw out and relate implications.

Example: 'Analyse the effect of bias.' Answer: break into parts, show how they connect, say what follows.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q27 (6 marks): Bias in AI (human bias and data set source bias)

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Assess Command word

Make a judgement of value, quality, outcomes, results or size.

Example: 'Assess the impact of automation.' Answer: state a judgement, then support it.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q25 (8 marks): ML, DevOps, RPA, BPA in security

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Evaluate Command word

Make a judgement based on criteria; determine the value of.

Example: 'Evaluate the effectiveness of the solution.' Answer: use criteria (speed, cost, security) and finish with a verdict.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2023 Software Design and Development HSC Q26 (9 marks): Code reading, maintainability and testing

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Justify Command word

Support an argument or conclusion.

Example: 'Justify the implementation method.' Answer: decision plus the reason, linked to the scenario.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: Sample exam Q5 (1 mark): Implementation methods

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Define Command word

State the meaning and identify the essential qualities.

Example: 'Define metadata.' Answer: a precise one-line meaning.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q18 (3 marks): Big data and web architecture

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Construct Command word

Make; build; put together items or arguments.

Example: 'Construct a SQL query.' Answer: build the diagram, query or code with every required feature.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.
  • Python: Python question: write or complete it in the online Python tool.
  • SQL: SQL question: write or read it in the SQL query tool.
  • Pseudocode: Pseudocode question: use it correctly in the exam pseudocode editor.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q21 (4 marks): SQL queries; 2025 HSC Q22 (3 marks): Modelling tools

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Account for Command word

State reasons for, report on; give an account of; narrate a series of events or transactions.

Example: 'Account for the failure of the test.' Answer: give reasons, in order.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Apply Command word

Use, utilise or employ in a particular situation.

Example: 'Apply input validation to this code.' Answer: use the idea on the given scenario.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Python: Python question: write or complete it in the online Python tool.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Calculate Command word

Ascertain or determine from given facts, figures or information.

Example: 'Calculate the binary value.' Answer: show working.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Clarify Command word

Make clear or plain.

Example: 'Clarify the difference.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Classify Command word

Arrange or include in classes or categories.

Example: 'Classify features as SAST or DAST.' Answer: place each item in a category.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.
  • Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q13 (2 marks): SAST and DAST

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Critically analyse or evaluate Command word

Add a degree or level of accuracy, depth, knowledge and understanding, logic, questioning, reflection and quality to analysis or evaluation.

Example: Used in extended responses. Answer: deeper reasoning with evidence and a reasoned verdict.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Deduce Command word

Draw conclusions.

Example: 'Deduce the output.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Demonstrate Command word

Show by example.

Example: 'Demonstrate how it works.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Python: Python question: write or complete it in the online Python tool.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Examine Command word

Inquire into.

Example: 'Examine the social impact.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Extract Command word

Choose relevant and/or appropriate details.

Example: 'Extract two features from the stimulus.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Extrapolate Command word

Infer from what is known.

Example: 'Extrapolate the trend.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Interpret Command word

Draw meaning from.

Example: 'Interpret the code fragment.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Code reading: Code or algorithm reading: interpret a fragment and state its output or purpose.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Investigate Command word

Plan, inquire into and draw conclusions about.

Example: 'Investigate the effect.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Predict Command word

Suggest what may happen based on available information.

Example: 'Predict the output.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Propose Command word

Put forward (for example a point of view, idea, argument, suggestion) for consideration or action.

Example: 'Propose an additional innovative solution.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Recall Command word

Present remembered ideas, facts or experiences.

Example: 'Recall the steps.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Recommend Command word

Provide reasons in favour.

Example: 'Recommend an approach.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Recount Command word

Retell a series of events.

Example: 'Recount the steps.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Summarise Command word

Express concisely the relevant details.

Example: 'Summarise the findings.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Synthesise Command word

Putting together various elements to make a whole.

Example: 'Synthesise the feedback.'

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for

Question-type skills

Multiple choice (MC) Process

Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.

Example: Q1 to Q14 in 2025 were objective (16 marks).

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q1 (1 mark): Implementation methods; 2025 HSC Q4 (1 mark): Optimisation

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Multi-select Process

Pick ALL correct options; the guideline marks it right only if you tick every correct one (and no wrong one).

Example: 2025 Q10 (regulatory compliance) and Q11 (DevOps).

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multi-select: Multi-select: you tick every correct option, so know all its features or goals.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q10 (1 mark): Regulatory compliance; 2025 HSC Q11 (1 mark): DevOps

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Drag-and-drop ordering Process

Put the steps in the correct order; know the SDLC order and the web request order.

Example: 'Requirements, design, development, testing, installation, maintenance.'

Where you would use it in the test

Related past questions: Familiarisation Q1 (1 mark): Development steps

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Fill in the blanks and dropdowns Process

Choose the right word from a list; use exact syllabus terms.

Example: 2025 Q2 (Waterfall or Agile) and Q14 (data structures).

Where you would use it in the test
  • Fill in the blanks: Fill in the blanks or dropdown: choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q2 (1 mark): Software development approaches; 2025 HSC Q14 (1 mark): Data structures

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Matching and tables Process

Tick or match each statement to the right column (for example ORM v SQL, SAST v DAST).

Example: 2025 Q9 (ORM and SQL) and Q13 (SAST and DAST).

Where you would use it in the test
  • Matching or table: Matching or table question: match it to its description, example or category.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q9 (1 mark): ORM and SQL; 2025 HSC Q13 (2 marks): SAST and DAST

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Drawing questions (online tool) Process

Use the online drawing tool: label every symbol and arrow, use the correct symbols from the specification, and add every required item.

Example: DFD, flowchart, structure chart, class diagram, decision tree, storyboard, UI.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Drawing: Drawing question: draw or label it in the online drawing tool.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q22 (3 marks): Modelling tools; Sample exam Q10 (2 marks): Structure charts

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Pseudocode questions Process

Write HSC-style pseudocode: capital keywords, paired END words, indentation; initialise variables; output the required result.

Example: 2025 Q17 array sum.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Pseudocode: Pseudocode question: use it correctly in the exam pseudocode editor.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q17 (3 marks): Algorithm design

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Python questions Process

Write code that runs: indentation, quotes, define functions before calling them, print the required output, meet every listed requirement.

Example: 2025 Q19 and Q26.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Python: Python question: write or complete it in the online Python tool.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q19 (3 marks): Developing secure code (Python); 2025 HSC Q26 (5 marks): Design, construct and implement a solution (Python)

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

SQL questions Process

Use SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY in order; put text in quotes; combine conditions with AND or OR; name the right tables.

Example: 2025 Q21.

Where you would use it in the test
  • SQL: SQL question: write or read it in the SQL query tool.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q21 (4 marks): SQL queries

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Short-answer questions Process

One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.

Example: 2025 Q15 to Q25.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q16a (3 marks): Progressive web apps; 2025 HSC Q20 (3 marks): Session management

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Extended response (5 to 6 marks) Process

Plan with the command word, give a judgement or explanation supported by named details from the stimulus, use course terms and cover both sides when asked.

Example: 2025 Q25 (5 marks) and Q27 (6 marks).

Where you would use it in the test
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Related past questions: 2025 HSC Q25 (5 marks): Patterns in human behaviour; neural networks (virtual personal assistant); 2025 HSC Q27 (6 marks): Bias in AI (human bias and data set source bias)

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

Reading time Process

The 2.5-hour exam includes 10 minutes of reading time. Plan: objective first, then short answer, leave time for the extended responses.

Example: Exam: Tue 27 Oct 2026, 9:50 am (Sydney time), 80 marks, online.

Where you would use it in the test
  • Multiple choice: Multiple choice: pick the option that matches the definition or example.
  • Short answer: Short answer (2 to 4 marks): define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
  • Extended response: Extended response (5 to 8 marks): use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.

Memorise: Exam day facts, key verbs and technique

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