Reading the command word: "describe" vs "explain" vs "discuss"

The word at the start of the question sets the bar

Exam questions are precise about what they're asking for, and the command word is the biggest clue to which NCEA grade a full answer needs to reach.

• State / Identify — a single fact or term, no reasoning needed. Usually Achieved-level on its own.
• Describe — say what happens, in some detail, but without necessarily saying why.
• Explain — say why or how something happens, giving reasons or a mechanism. This is where most Merit-level demand sits.
• Discuss / Evaluate / Justify — weigh up more than one idea, or reach and defend a conclusion. This is where Excellence-level demand usually sits.

A quick habit that prevents easy losses

Before you write anything, circle or underline the command word. If a question says "explain," a description with no reasoning will be capped well below full marks — no matter how accurate it is.