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Software Engineering › Key terms › Command words › Outline
Outline
Command word Command words
Definition
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.
Found in: syllabus, 2025 HSC marking guidelines, sample exam and familiarisation 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.
- Extended response: Use it as a supporting point linked to the stimulus.
Past questions that use this command word
- 2025 HSC exam Q15b The Software Engineering Project (Part A) · 3 marks
- 2025 HSC exam Q16b Programming for the Web (Part A) · 3 marks
- 2025 HSC exam Q23a Secure Software Architecture (Part A) · 3 marks
- Sample exam Q16b Programming for the Web (Part B) · 2 marks
- 2021 Software Design and Development Q24 The Software Engineering Project (Part D) · 3 marks · old syllabus
- 2023 Software Design and Development Q21 The Software Engineering Project (Part D) · 2 marks · old syllabus
Study links
- Flashcard: Outline 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 “Outline” question
NESA glossary of key words
Sketch in general terms; indicate the main features of.
Pattern: 'Outline two ways to minimise load time.' Answer: short statement per point, no deep detail.
Technique for the question types
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
- Extended response: 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.
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 · Describe · Distinguish · Compare · Contrast · Explain · Discuss · Analyse · Assess · Evaluate · Justify · Define · Construct · Account for