Which best describes the difference between inform and instruct?

• A. Inform: share information; Instruct: give command or guidance on action to perform
• B. Inform: give command; Instruct: share information
• C. They are the same
• D. Instruct: observe; Inform: act

Answer: (A)

The main idea is the difference in purpose: informing versus instructing. Informing is about sharing facts, details, or background so someone understands something. Instructing is about directing action—giving commands or step-by-step guidance on how to perform a task.

For example, informing would involve telling cadets about a new policy, its reasons, and when it applies. Instructing would involve telling them exactly how to carry out a drill or how to complete a specific procedure. Because informing is about increasing knowledge and understanding, while instructing is about shaping behavior and performance, the description that best fits is: inform means share information, instruct means give command or guidance on action to perform.

Other options miss the distinction: they swap meanings, treat them as the same, or pair the actions with unrelated tasks.