HomeLearn step by stepMemoriseKey termsFlashcardsNotesMaster answersPast questionsMultiple choiceMock examPractice & marker
Software Engineering › Key terms › Command words › Distinguish
Distinguish
Command word Command words
Definition
Note differences between things.
Example: 'Distinguish neural networks from AI.' Answer: name both and say what is different.
Found in: syllabus, 2025 HSC marking guidelines, school notes, past SDD papers.
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Command words.
Question types it can appear in
- Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Past questions that use this command word
- 2024 Software Design and Development Q28 The Software Engineering Project (Part D) · 3 marks · old syllabus
Study links
- Flashcard: Distinguish in Command Words and Question-type Skills · study that set
- Memorise: NESA key verbs: what each one asks for
How to use it in an answer
How to answer a “Distinguish” question
NESA glossary of key words
Note differences between things.
Pattern: 'Distinguish neural networks from AI.' Answer: name both and say what is different.
Technique for the question types
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
- Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
Common mistakes
General advice
- Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.
Related terms
Same group in the syllabus: Identify · Outline · Describe · Compare · Contrast · Explain · Discuss · Analyse · Assess · Evaluate · Justify · Define · Construct · Account for