Arizona State Board Nail Technology Practice Exam

When answering an essay question, which term indicates a comparison is needed?

1. Analyze

2. Describe

3. Contrast

4. Summarize

The correct answer is: Contrast

The term that indicates a comparison is needed is "contrast." This term specifically points to the act of identifying differences between two or more subjects, concepts, or ideas. When a question asks you to contrast, it implies that you need to explore how the subjects are alike and, more importantly, how they diverge from each other. This provides insight into the unique characteristics of each item being compared, allowing for a deeper understanding of the topics at hand. In contrast, the other terms guide different kinds of responses. "Analyze" generally involves breaking down a concept into parts and examining its meaning or function, but it does not inherently require comparison. "Describe" focuses on conveying details about a subject, emphasizing characteristics or features without making relational judgments. "Summarize" entails providing a brief overview, highlighting the main points of a subject, again without a comparative angle. Therefore, when tasked with contrasting, you draw out the distinctions, making this the appropriate term for situations requiring a comparison.