What is the 'feedback sandwich' approach?

What is the 'feedback sandwich' approach?

• A. Positive feedback, then area for improvement, then positive closing.
• B. Negative feedback, followed by more negative feedback, then reprimand.
• C. One-sided praise with no critique.
• D. Formal written evaluation only.

Answer: (A)

The feedback sandwich is a method for giving feedback that starts with positive feedback, then provides constructive feedback about areas for improvement, and ends with positive closing remarks. This structure helps the person receiving feedback stay receptive because they hear what they’re doing well, understand exactly what to change, and leave with encouragement that support is available. The option described matches this sequence: first praise, then guidance on improvement, then an encouraging closing. It isn’t about harsh or repeated negative remarks, which would undermine motivation; it isn’t about one-sided praise with no critique, which fails to guide growth; and it isn’t merely a formal written evaluation, which lacks the interactive, developmental emphasis of the sandwich approach. For effective use, keep feedback specific and tied to observable actions, and finish with a concrete plan or next steps.

The feedback sandwich is a method for giving feedback that starts with positive feedback, then provides constructive feedback about areas for improvement, and ends with positive closing remarks. This structure helps the person receiving feedback stay receptive because they hear what they’re doing well, understand exactly what to change, and leave with encouragement that support is available. The option described matches this sequence: first praise, then guidance on improvement, then an encouraging closing. It isn’t about harsh or repeated negative remarks, which would undermine motivation; it isn’t about one-sided praise with no critique, which fails to guide growth; and it isn’t merely a formal written evaluation, which lacks the interactive, developmental emphasis of the sandwich approach. For effective use, keep feedback specific and tied to observable actions, and finish with a concrete plan or next steps.