Iterative refinement begins with a working attempt and improves it in stages. Each cycle examines the current output, identifies a specific gap, and changes the artifact or instructions before testing again.
The method can produce better results than a single attempt, but its cost and number of corrections should remain visible. A final success reached through many guided revisions demonstrates a different level of independence from consistently correct work after one instruction.
ELI5
Iterative refinement means making something better a little at a time. You create a first version, check it, fix the weakest parts, and check again.
For example, an AI helper might make a short animation, receive feedback that the explanation is unclear, revise the narration, and then produce a clearer second version.
