Abbreviations
If a word in a clue is abbreviated, the answer is usually an abbreviation.
Example: [UK award] is OBE
First Names
Clues that only mention a first name of a character and ask for the actor, or vice-versa, usually want a first name for an answer.
Example: [Obi-Wan portrayer] is EWAN
Similarly, if a first name of comparative example is given, the answer is probably a first name.
Examples: [Benedict’s “The Imitation Game” co-star] is KEIRA