A scoring point has three parts: a claim, a reason that makes the claim believable, and an example that shows it in the real world. Miss the second or third and a correct claim often earns only part of the mark.
What do the three parts do?
The claim states your position. The reason says why it is true. The example proves it with something concrete.
A simple frame helps: “[Claim], because [reason]. For example, [example].”
Worked example
Here is an original question: “Give one advantage of keeping a household budget.”
Stage one is the bare claim.
A budget helps a family save money.
Stage two adds the reason.
A budget helps a family save money because it shows where money is spent and which spending can be reduced.
Stage three adds an example.
A budget helps a family save money because it shows where money is spent and which spending can be reduced. For example, a family that records its spending may find that RM120 every month goes on takeaway drinks and choose to cut it by half.
The arithmetic in the example is easy to check: half of RM120 is RM60 saved each month. The example is invented, and a real exam answer can use any realistic case of this kind.
What does the common mistake look like?
A student writes: “A budget is good because it helps people manage money.” This repeats the claim in different words and calls it a reason. The word manage says nothing about how or why.
A real reason names the mechanism: it shows where money goes. A quick test is to cover the claim and read the reason alone. If it could be attached to any claim, it is too general.
Steps to follow
- Write the claim as one short sentence that answers the question.
- Add because and finish the thought with a cause, not a repeat of the claim.
- Add for example and name a specific person, place, number or situation.
Self-check
Improve this original answer to “Why is it important to read a product label before buying food?”
It is important because it is good for health.
Answer
The claim is reasonable, but the reason is vague. A stronger answer: “Reading the label tells you what is inside the product, so you can avoid ingredients that harm you. For example, a student with a peanut allergy can see the allergy warning before buying a snack.” The reason names the mechanism, and the example is specific and realistic.
Where to go next
Strong points still need checking against the question, which is covered in editing a response against its task. The claim-evidence revision desk lets you practise on your own answers. If your paragraphs mix several claims, go back to organising one idea per paragraph.