Why does this work?
LLMs are effective at this task because they can access and process vast amounts of information (easily enough to be able to explain complex concepts). They can then identify and extract the core, most important, meaning of complex concepts. Because they are also trained on materials for different age groups, they can simplify explanations to match a 10-year-old's understanding level.
Example Prompt
Explain "EBITDA" to me like I'm 10 years old.
Recommended Tools
ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini
Links to Tools
Common Issues & Solutions
The explanation is still too complex
The explanation is still too complex
Ask for even simpler language or request specific analogies: 'Can you explain this using a lemonade stand example?'
I'm worried the explanation is too simplified
I'm worried the explanation is too simplified
Request a follow-up: 'Now give me a more detailed version' to get the nuanced understanding you need
Related Safeguarding Concepts
Understanding these safeguarding concepts will help you use this technique responsibly and effectively: