---
title: "Directive Verb Definition | Model Diplomat"
description: "A directive verb is the command word in exam questions guiding the depth of answers. Crucial for UPSC candidates and civil service exams."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/directive-verb"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- A directive verb is the command word in an examination question that specifies the cognitive operation and depth of treatment the answer must perform.
- What is the difference between 'analyse' and 'critically analyse' as directive verbs?
- How does the directive verb determine answer structure and marks in UPSC Mains?
- What do directive verbs like 'comment' and 'to what extent' require?
- Are directive verbs unique to UPSC examinations?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

A directive verb is the command word in an examination question that specifies the cognitive operation and depth of treatment the answer must perform.

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Example

In the 2019 UPSC GS-II Mains paper, candidates were asked to "critically examine" the desirability of simultaneous elections, requiring a balanced two-sided judgement rather than mere description of the proposal's features.

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