i got 19/20 in short answers for trials, this is the general structure i use:
a concise 'WHAT' that answers the question- what is the human experience and what does this show?
depending on the amount of marks u can do an explanation
the length and amount of techniques depends on the mark allocation, generally it goes:
3 marks = 2
4 marks = 3
5 marks = 4 etc.
with each bit of new evidence you use, you must provide a new insight - dont repeat the same thing.
try to imbed quotes in the sentence
remember to name your techniques and dont use the same one twice
sophistication and judiciously selected evidence is what will ultimately get you into the highest band.
honestly in short answers you have to bs - think of some fluffy insight and prove it.
hsc markers are trying to reward you and are not looking for a ridiculous lengthy responses, the allocated lines are how much you should be writing.
link back to readers/audiences and the authors purpose - how this challenges, inspires, provokes etc.
the only way youre going to improve is by practicing short answers in timed conditions.