FBISE SSC key terms

A question that gives several possible answers, of which exactly one is correct. The candidate selects the best option and usually earns one mark for a correct choice.

An incorrect option placed among the choices of a multiple choice question. A good distractor looks plausible to a candidate who has only partly understood the topic.

The official list that states the correct response for each question in a paper. Examiners use it to mark objective items consistently and quickly.

The opening part of a multiple choice question that states the problem or asks the question, before the options are listed. It should be read carefully because it may contain a key condition.

A marking rule that deducts marks for wrong answers, usually to discourage random guessing. Candidates should check whether their paper applies it before guessing.

A test-taking technique in which options known to be wrong are removed first, so the remaining choices can be compared. It raises the chance of a correct guess.

Planning how many minutes to spend on each section of a paper so that all questions are attempted. It usually means answering easy items first and leaving time to review.

A printed answer sheet on which candidates fill small circles with a pencil to record their choices. The sheet is read by an optical machine, so clean and accurate filling matters.

A question that requires a written answer in sentences, such as an explanation, a comparison or a short essay. Marks are awarded for content, accuracy and organisation rather than a single choice.

A document that tells examiners how to award marks for a question, listing the points an answer should contain. It keeps marking fair and consistent across many scripts.

A set of written criteria describing levels of performance in an answer, often with mark bands. It helps examiners judge quality in extended or open-ended responses.

A long written answer, such as an essay or a detailed explanation, that carries several marks. It needs a clear structure, relevant facts and a reasoned conclusion.

The planned arrangement of a written answer into an introduction, body paragraphs and a conclusion. Each paragraph should carry one main idea linked to the question asked.

The first sentence of a paragraph that states its main idea. It guides the reader and keeps the paragraph focused on one point.

The verb in a question that tells the candidate what to do, for example state, describe, explain or compare. It signals how much detail and what kind of answer is expected.

A question that expects a brief written response of a few lines or points. It tests recall and simple explanation rather than extended argument.

A question that asks the candidate to state the exact meaning of a term or concept. A precise, complete statement earns the mark; vague wording usually loses it.

A task in which parts of a drawn figure must be named or marked. Clear, correctly spelled labels placed beside the right part earn the marks.

A question that requires calculation, usually with formula, working and a final answer with units. Marks are often given for the method as well as the result.

The written steps that show how a numerical answer was obtained. Examiners award part marks for correct method even when the final number is wrong.

The digits in a measured value that carry meaning about its precision. Answers to calculations are usually rounded to the same number of significant figures as the data given.

The official outline of topics, learning outcomes and assessment for a subject. Candidates should use it to check what can be examined and to plan revision.

A question paper from an earlier examination session. Practising under timed conditions shows the style of questions and common topics.

The minimum total score a candidate must reach to be awarded a pass grade. It is set by the examining body and may differ between subjects or sessions.

The range of marks that corresponds to a particular grade in a given session. Boundaries can move between sessions because papers vary in difficulty.

A summary written after marking that describes common mistakes and strong answers. Reading it helps future candidates avoid repeated errors.

A written plan that allocates study time to each subject and topic before the examination. Spacing topics over weeks improves memory better than last-minute cramming.

A study method in which the learner tries to remember information without looking at notes, for example by self-testing. It strengthens memory more than passive rereading.

A reference list of equations used in a subject, sometimes supplied in the paper. Knowing when and how to apply each formula still matters more than memorising the list.

The standard quantity in which a measurement is expressed, such as metre, second or newton. A numerical answer without the correct unit is usually incomplete.

Drawing a simplified curve or line that shows how two quantities are related, with labelled axes. The shape and key points matter more than exact plotting.

A question that asks for similarities and differences between two or more items. A good answer presents the points side by side rather than describing each item separately.

A question that asks why or how something happens, not just what it is. The answer must give reasons or a causal chain, often using words such as because or therefore.

Underlining or circling important words in a question before answering. It reduces careless errors caused by missing words such as not, except or give two examples.

Space or sheets used for calculations and planning before the final answer is written. Clear rough work lets a candidate check steps and helps when revising an answer.