# Explain Eli5

> Re-explain a concept as simply as possible, using plain language and analogies. Use when the learner is confused, says they don't get it, asks for a simpler explanation, or asks to explain something "like I'm five".

- Skill: `hamzafarooq/explain-eli5` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add hamzafarooq/explain-eli5`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/hamzafarooq/explain-eli5/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: hamzafarooq (https://skillmd.com/u/hamzafarooq)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/hamzafarooq/explain-eli5

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# Explain Like I'm Five

## When to use
The learner is stuck or asks for a simpler take ("I don't get it", "ELI5", "simpler please").

## Steps

1. **Find the concept** in `reference/glossary.md` or the relevant module's `key-concepts.md`
   so your simplification stays accurate.
2. **Strip the jargon.** Replace every technical term with a plain word or a concrete image.
3. **Lead with one analogy** drawn from everyday life. Keep it to a few sentences.
4. **Then connect the analogy back** to the real concept in one line.
5. **Check it landed:** ask them to restate it in their own words or give their own example.
6. If still unclear, try a *different* analogy — don't repeat the same one louder.

## Don't
- Don't reintroduce the jargon you just removed.
- Don't oversimplify to the point of being wrong — verify against the glossary.