When you compare a model answer with your own, the first question is: what exactly makes it good?
First: the length, and why it is longer
Model answers are usually longer. But longer in what way?
For example, the opening:
I've realised my lifestyle hasn't been very healthy, especially because I sit at a computer for long periods.
That is a little context about themselves before getting to the question. It naturally produces more content.
And talking about yourself is easy, because you are the one subject you know thoroughly.
Second: the vocabulary is not hard
Look closely at the model and the words are all ones you know: extended, practice, manage, consistent. Nothing advanced.
So what makes it good?
The skill is collocation
Collocation means the words that naturally go together.
Compare:
- do yoga → practising yoga every morning
- benefit → a noticeable benefit
- (nothing) → stay consistent
- because → especially because
The same vocabulary, but paired differently, and the whole thing sounds far more natural.
What this means for you
You do not need to go away and learn a list of rare words. You need to notice how the ordinary words you already know combine.
Next time you read a model answer, do not only underline new words. Underline the pairings you would not have produced yourself.