Overview
Understanding command words is the key to unlocking marks in Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science (9618). They are not suggestions; they are precise instructions telling you exactly what the examiner wants to see. Recognising the difference between a one-mark 'State' question and a high-tariff 'Evaluate' question is crucial for structuring your answers effectively and managing your time across all three papers.
Low-Tariff Command Words: Precision and Recall
For Cambridge syllabus 9618, words like Define, State, Identify, and Calculate are testing your ability to recall and present information accurately and concisely. For these questions, less is more. A 'Define' question requires a formal, textbook-style definition of a term, while 'State' or 'Identify' simply needs a short, specific piece of information without any elaboration. 'Calculate' questions require you to show your working to arrive at a numerical answer. Adding unnecessary detail or long explanations for these questions will not gain you extra marks and wastes valuable time that could be spent on more complex problems. For a general overview, see our guide to [Cambridge command words explained](/blog/cambridge-command-words-explained).
Mid-Tariff Command Words: Explaining and Applying
For Cambridge syllabus 9618, the command word Explain is a step up from simple recall and appears frequently across all papers. It asks for the 'why' or 'how' behind a concept, not just the 'what'. A good explanation will clarify a point, provide reasons, and make logical connections between different pieces of information. For example, in Paper 1, you might be asked to explain how a firewall works. In Paper 2, you might need to explain the purpose of a specific line of code within an algorithm. Your answer should demonstrate a clear understanding of the underlying principles, often supported by a relevant example to add depth and clarity.
High-Tariff Command Words: Analysis and Justification
For Cambridge syllabus 9618, when you see Analyse or Justify, you are being asked to perform a deeper level of thinking. 'Analyse' requires you to break down a complex topic into its constituent parts and examine them in detail to uncover the relationships between them. This could involve dissecting a system's architecture or examining the efficiency of different algorithms. 'Justify', on the other hand, requires you to provide robust, evidence-based reasons to support a particular choice or conclusion. For instance, you might need to justify your choice of data structure for a given problem, weighing its benefits against other options and linking your reasoning directly to the scenario.
The Evaluative Command Words: Discuss, Evaluate, Assess
For Cambridge syllabus 9618, found in the highest-tariff questions, particularly in Paper 3 (Advanced Theory), the words Discuss, Evaluate, and Assess demand the most sophisticated response. These questions require a balanced argument where you consider multiple perspectives, such as the advantages and disadvantages of a technology or the arguments for and against a particular approach. Simply listing points for one side is not enough. To reach the top mark bands, you must follow your two-sided review with a supported judgement or conclusion. This means you must make a final decision and explicitly state why you have reached it, based on the evidence you have presented in your answer. Understanding this structure is fundamental to how [9618 marking](/subjects/9618) rewards higher-order thinking.
Frequently asked questions
This section covers Frequently asked questions — ranked by what Cambridge examiners return to most often in past papers.
What's the difference between 'Describe' and 'Explain'?
'Describe' asks for the 'what'—a detailed account of the features or steps of a process. For example, you might describe the steps of a bubble sort. 'Explain' asks for the 'why' or 'how'—the reasoning behind it. For example, you would explain why a bubble sort is considered an inefficient algorithm for large datasets.
How do I make a 'supported judgement' for an 'Evaluate' question?
After presenting both sides of the argument (e.g., pros and cons), you must state a clear conclusion. Then, explicitly link that conclusion back to the most critical points you've made. For instance: "Therefore, while solution A is cheaper, solution B is the better choice because its superior security is the most important factor for this banking application."
Do I lose marks for writing too much for a 'State' question?
You won't be directly penalised, but it's poor exam technique. 'State' questions are designed for quick, one-point answers. Wasting time writing a paragraph for a single mark means you have less time for higher-tariff questions where detailed answers are required. Be precise, answer the question, and move on.