Sparring, to many options

During sparring class last night I realize that I am having problems coming up with technique maybe because of me "free hand hits" training. With free hand hits most of the time striking is not an option because you respond without thinking when a hand is free and it automatically goes to a target of opportunity. I am stuck with to many targets of opportunity during sparring.

Sensei Marston suggested that I find a few combination moves that I like and practice them. Work at home and develop the moves then find someone at the dojo and ask to practice with them for a few minutes. Also during sparring workouts tell my partner that I want to work on these moves for a couple of minutes.

What I heard; develop a vocabulary of Karate strikes and kicks. After you know a few words put them together into three word sentences. Drill a set until it becomes second nature (learn the drill, do the drill, forget the drill). Sen sen no sen; learn to ask the questions that your words (strikes/kicks) can answer. She said you really only have a couple that work well for you and will use them all the time. Ah, master a tool and then find places and situations to use it.

Sensei Marston also suggested putting 1" tape targets on the punching bag and practice accuracy. Work the combinations for accuracy.