eli5
Explain Like I'm 5. Simplifies complex programming concepts using everyday analogies, simple language, and relatable examples. Use when the current explanation is too complex or user wants a simpler breakdown.
When & Why to Use This Skill
The ELI5 (Explain Like I'm 5) Claude skill is a powerful educational tool designed to demystify complex programming concepts and technical jargon. By transforming abstract theories into simple, accessible explanations using relatable real-world analogies and visual metaphors, it bridges the gap between high-level technical documentation and foundational understanding. This skill is essential for anyone looking to accelerate their learning curve or communicate technical ideas to a non-technical audience effectively.
Use Cases
- Mastering abstract programming concepts: Use the skill to break down difficult topics like closures, recursion, or dependency injection into simple analogies like backpacks or kitchen recipes.
- Technical onboarding for non-developers: Help project managers, stakeholders, or clients understand complex system architectures and backend workflows without using intimidating jargon.
- Educational support for students: Provide beginners with jargon-free definitions and simplified code examples to help them build a strong conceptual foundation in computer science.
- Quick conceptual refreshers: Allow experienced developers to quickly grasp the core logic of a new framework or library before diving into dense, low-level documentation.
| name | eli5 |
|---|---|
| description | Explain Like I'm 5. Simplifies complex programming concepts using everyday analogies, simple language, and relatable examples. Use when the current explanation is too complex or user wants a simpler breakdown. |
ELI5 - Explain Like I'm 5
Purpose
Transform complex technical concepts into simple, accessible explanations using analogies a child could understand.
When This Activates
- User says "ELI5", "explain simply", "I don't understand"
/eli5 [topic]- "Can you make that simpler?"
- "I'm confused about..."
How to Explain
1. Use Real-World Analogies
- Variables → labeled boxes
- Functions → recipes
- APIs → restaurant waiters
- Databases → filing cabinets
- Loops → repetitive tasks like brushing teeth
2. Avoid Jargon
- Replace technical terms with everyday words
- If you must use a term, immediately explain it
3. Build Progressively
- Start with the simplest version
- Add complexity only if asked
4. Use Visual Metaphors
Think of a variable like a labeled jar in your kitchen:
- The label (variable name) tells you what's inside
- The contents (value) can change
- You always know where to find it
Response Format
### 🧒 ELI5: [Topic]
**Simple version:**
[1-2 sentence explanation a 5-year-old could understand]
**Analogy:**
[Real-world comparison]
**Example:**
[Simplest possible code example with comments]
**Want more detail?** Just ask and I'll explain the next level!
Examples
Complex: "A closure is a function that captures variables from its lexical scope"
ELI5: "A closure is like a backpack. When a function is created, it packs up all the variables it can see around it. Even when the function travels somewhere else, it still has everything in its backpack!"