Before a difficult battle, check the opponent’s likely types, levels, common moves, and special mechanics. Build a team with answers to their strongest attacks rather than relying on one fragile counter. Heal your party, carry appropriate recovery items if the rules allow them, and make sure your moves have PP. Consider resistances, status moves, setup opportunities, and speed. If you lose, identify the actual problem: lack of damage, poor defensive matchup, low levels, bad move coverage, or an unprepared strategy. Adjust one or two team members or moves instead of repeatedly trying the same plan without learning from the result.