Show the whole action
Demonstrate at a controlled pace so athletes can see the starting position and finish. Name the problem the technique solves, such as clearing a hand to complete an escape.
Break at useful checkpoints
Pause at two or three positions that determine the outcome. For a penetration step, use level change, entry, and trail-leg recovery rather than narrating every joint movement.
Give one correction
Watch a few repetitions before intervening. Choose the most important error and connect the correction to its effect: bring the trail foot up so you can change direction.
Check understanding
Have the athlete demonstrate again or explain the cue in their own words. Add resistance only when the basic shape and partner responsibilities are understood.
Put it into practice
Your next session
Teach a familiar technique using a 30-second demonstration and one cue. After three repetitions, ask the athlete what the cue changed. Use the answer to choose the next correction.
What to look for
Judge the lesson by what athletes can reproduce, not by how much information you delivered. Repeat the demonstration from another angle when a detail remains unclear.