How to answer "Define" questions
Define means: Give the precise meaning of a term.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
AO1. · Also phrased as: state the meaning of, what is meant by
What the examiner is looking for
- A concise, accurate definition using the exact wording examiners credit.
- Learn the mark-scheme phrasing — near-misses often lose the mark.
How to structure your answer
- One or two precise sentences — no example needed unless asked.
Worked example
Q: Define diffusion. (1 mark)
Model answer: Diffusion is the net movement of particles from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration, down a concentration gradient [1].
Common mistakes
- Vague wording ("it spreads out") that misses the key terms.
- Omitting "net movement" or "down a concentration gradient".
Practise it
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