What practical diet and exercise changes helped lower A1C from 6.8%?

[Ella.W]

My most recent A1C result came back at 6.8%, which my doctor says indicates prediabetes and is a significant jump from my last test six months ago. I'm trying to understand what this means in practical terms for my daily diet and exercise, as the general advice to "eat healthier and move more" feels too vague. For others who have successfully lowered their A1C from a similar starting point, what specific, actionable changes to your routine made the biggest impact, and how did you track your progress between blood tests to stay motivated?