NEBOSH Command Words

                   

Some advice on what NEBOSH command words are, and what they mean.

Command words are used very carefully and each question has a certain order of words to try to enable candidates to understand what Examiners are looking for. In every question the skills required by the specific command words are also shown in the marks allocated for the question.

Understanding the command words in a question is the key to success in answering it. The command word indicates the nature of answer and the skills being assessed.

Identify

To give reference to an item, which could be it’s name or title. Normally a word or phrase will be sufficient, provided the reference is clear.

Outline

A brief summary of the major aspects of whatever is stated in the question. Requires the same breadth of answer as required in an “identify” answer, but now with additional information to satisfy the depth of an outline.

Describe

To give a detailed written account of the distinctive features of a subject. The account should be factual, without any attempt to explain.

When describing a subject (or object) a test of sufficient detail would be that another person would be able to visualise what you are describing.

Explain

To provide an understanding. To make an idea or relationship clear. Goes further than “describe”, by explaining the detail required in the question.

NB: this command word is testing the candidate’s ability to know or understand why or how something happens. Is often associated with the words ‘how’ or ‘why’.

Further details can be found in the NEBOSH Guidance on Command Words – Certificate Qualifications.