Cheatsheet

Command words.

Examiners mark what they ask for. Match the verb and you bank the marks.

State

Usually 1 mark per fact.

Give a short, factual answer.

Examiner expects: One short sentence or a list. No explanation needed.

ExampleState three factors that limit photosynthesis. → Light, CO₂, temperature.

1 mark per item.

Give a number of items, no detail.

Examiner expects: Bullet points or numbered list, matching the number asked for.

ExampleList four pernicious perennial weeds. → couch grass, bindweed, ground elder, dandelion.

Often 1 mark per descriptive point, 4–6 marks total.

Give a factual account of what something looks like, or what happens, step by step.

Examiner expects: Detail and order. No need to justify why.

ExampleDescribe how to take a semi-ripe cutting. → timing, length, cut below node, hormone, insert, cold frame.

1 mark per linked point (statement + reason).

Give reasons. Show cause and effect.

Examiner expects: Each fact must be followed by 'because…' or 'so that…'.

ExampleExplain why mulching is beneficial. → Conserves moisture (less evaporation), suppresses weeds (no light), moderates soil temp, adds OM.

Often 6 marks — typically 3 paired points.

Show similarities and differences side by side.

Examiner expects: Use connecting words: 'whereas', 'however', 'both…'. Cover both sides.

ExampleCompare sandy and clay soils. → particle size, drainage, warm-up, nutrient retention, workability.