In economics, the task verb 'explain' requires students to not only describe a concept but also to provide reasoning and context to support their answer, making it synonymous with 'identify.'

In economics, when you see the task verb "explain," it means you need to do more than just tell what something is; you also have to show why it matters. For example, if you're asked to explain the concept of supply and demand, you should describe what supply and demand are and how they interact in the market. You would also want to include reasons why this interaction is important, like how it affects prices and consumer choices. By providing context, you help your reader understand not just the definition but also the significance of the concept. This deeper understanding is what makes "explain" similar to "identify," as both require you to connect ideas and show their relevance in economics.