How to Write Great Essays

compare:
examine qualities or characteristics to note and discuss similarities
and differences
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contrast:
examine two or more ideas, people, or things, stressing their differ-
ences

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HOW TO WRITE GREAT ESSAYS
CHAPTER 7
Timed Essay Writing Strategies
88
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define:
give a clear, authoritative meaning that identifies distinguishing char-
acteristics
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describe:
relate the details that make the subject in question unique
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diagram:
create a graphic organizer (see Chapter 1, page 7) that explains your
answer
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discuss:
examine the subject(s) thoroughly, and give a detailed explanation of
its strengths and weaknesses
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enumerate:
determine the points you must make, and present them in a list
or outline form
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explain:
clarify meaning in a straightforward fashion, paying attention to the
reasons for a situation (review Chapter 2, page 13, about Qualifying and
Quantifying)
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illustrate:
use examples, graphic organizers, evidence, or analogies to give
meaning or answer a problem
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interpret:
explain the meaning of something or solve a problem using per-
sonal opinions, judgments, or reactions
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list:
see 
enumerate
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narrate:
explain an occurrence by describing it as a series of chronological
events
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outline:
describe in an organized fashion, systematically, highlighting only the
major points (details not necessary)
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relate:
explain the associations or connections between two or more things,
events, circumstances, or even people; may also be used to mean 
narrate
(see
above)
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