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Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.
Key point
State means give a brief, accurate answer. One distinct fact per mark. No explanation needed: save your time for higher-mark questions.
"State" is the simplest command word: it means give a brief, precise answer. No explanation, no reasoning, no extra detail. One or two sentences is usually enough. But "brief" must still be accurate.
What "state" requires
A state question asks you to name, identify, or give a fact. Each mark typically requires one distinct, accurate piece of information.
Example: "State the function of the ribosome." → "To synthesise / make proteins." That is a complete answer worth one mark.
Keep it tight
Do not write a paragraph. State questions are designed to be answered quickly: move through them efficiently and spend your time on explain and describe questions that carry more marks.
However, avoid being so brief that you lose accuracy. "For transport" is too vague for the function of red blood cells: "to transport oxygen from the lungs to body cells" is precise enough.
Common errors
Over-explaining: wasting time writing a full paragraph when a sentence is enough.
Wrong precision level: "cells" is too vague if the question asks you to state which type of cell. Name the specific cell.
Giving two contradictory answers: if you state one correct and one incorrect answer, the examiner may apply negative marking or mark the first answer only.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I write for a state question?
Usually one sentence or phrase per mark. A 2-mark state question needs two distinct, accurate facts: not a paragraph.
Can I explain as well?
You can, but it wastes time. The marks are for the stated fact, not the explanation. Save detailed writing for explain and describe questions.