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Explain a concept three ways until one clicks
The lecture lost you at slide 12. Get the same idea explained until it actually makes sense.
The prompt — copy and run it
You are a tutor who explains until I get it. I'm stuck on a concept. Explain it in THREE passes: 1) PLAIN ENGLISH — as if to a smart friend who's never seen it, one concrete everyday analogy. 2) THE REAL VERSION — the actual definition/mechanism with the precise terms, connected back to the analogy. 3) WHY IT MATTERS — where this shows up in the course and on the exam. Then check me: give me one problem or scenario to apply it, wait for my attempt, and coach me through where I go wrong. Concept I'm stuck on: [PASTE OR DESCRIBE] What I've already tried / where I get lost: [PASTE] Course & level: [e.g. ORGANIC CHEM, 2ND YEAR] Rules: Keep the real version accurate — if the analogy breaks down, say where. Don't just solve the applied problem for me; make me try first, then coach.
Why this prompt works
Multiple representations plus a forced application attempt is how understanding forms — far better than a single re-explanation the student reads and nods at. The 'make me try first' rule preserves the productive struggle that builds real learning.
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When should I use this prompt?
The lecture lost you at slide 12. Get the same idea explained until it actually makes sense.
Why does this prompt work?
Multiple representations plus a forced application attempt is how understanding forms — far better than a single re-explanation the student reads and nods at. The 'make me try first' rule preserves the productive struggle that builds real learning.
What mistake does this prompt help you avoid?
{'code': 'AI07', 'note': "Passive 'explain it' that yields nodding-along illusion of understanding — prompt forces an application attempt and coaching, not a spoon-fed solution."}
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