Identify the command and scope
Underline what the question asks you to do: define, explain, compare or justify. Note the mark allocation and any required conditions or examples. Draft a brief answer structure before writing. More facts do not automatically improve an answer if they do not address the specified task.
Write without a model answer
Answer from memory under a realistic time limit, then compare with course material or a reliable marking rubric. Separate missing facts from missing reasoning. When a claim needs a causal link, a correct keyword alone may not satisfy the question; write the connection explicitly.
Rewrite after a delay
Reduce feedback to a few actionable points and attempt a similar prompt later. Do not simply copy the model paragraph. Check whether the improved response still works when the scenario or wording changes, and retain source references for definitions that must follow course-specific conventions.
Worked example
The prompt asks for two differences and one consequence. A student initially lists five definitions but never states the consequence. Their review checklist becomes 'difference one, difference two, consequence with reason.' On the next attempt they use three connected sentences. The improvement comes from answering the command, not from making the response longer.
Before you finish
- The response addresses the exact command word.
- Each important point has the required explanation.
- A later attempt uses a new prompt rather than a copied paragraph.