“What Do You Guys Think of This Explanation?” – Why Feedback Matters in Learning
Ever heard an explanation that left you more confused than before? Maybe a teacher, colleague, or even a YouTube tutorial tried to break down a concept, but instead of clarity, you walked away with more questions. We’ve all been there. The real problem isn’t always the complexity of the topic—it’s how the explanation is delivered.
So, when someone asks, “What do you guys think of this explanation?” they’re not just seeking validation. They’re inviting a conversation that can uncover gaps, biases, or oversights in how ideas are communicated. Let’s explore why this question matters and how to craft explanations that truly stick.
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Why Explanations Make or Break Learning
Explanations are the backbone of education. A good one can turn a “Huh?” into an “Aha!” moment. A poor one? It might leave learners feeling defeated or disengaged. Here’s the catch: no explanation is universally perfect. What works for one person might baffle another. That’s why feedback—like asking “What do you think?”—is so critical.
For example, imagine a math teacher explaining quadratic equations. If they dive straight into formulas without addressing why quadratics matter (e.g., calculating projectile motion or profit margins), half the class might tune out. But if they start with a real-world problem—like designing a parabolic microphone—suddenly, the abstract becomes tangible.
The difference lies in audience awareness. Great explainers constantly ask:
– “Does this make sense?”
– “Am I assuming prior knowledge they might not have?”
– “Is there a better analogy or example to use here?”
Without these check-ins, even well-intentioned explanations can miss the mark.
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How to Judge an Explanation: A 4-Point Checklist
When evaluating an explanation—whether your own or someone else’s—use this framework:
1. Clarity
Is the language simple and direct? Jargon has its place, but overusing terms like “synergy” or “paradigm shift” can alienate newcomers. A clear explanation prioritizes understanding over sounding impressive.
Example: Instead of saying, “Photosynthesis is a biochemical process involving chlorophyll-mediated photon absorption,” try: “Plants use sunlight to turn carbon dioxide and water into food—like a solar-powered kitchen!”
2. Relevance
Does the explanation connect to the listener’s goals or experiences? A history buff might appreciate dates and political contexts, but a casual learner might need stories about people and emotions.
3. Engagement
Is the explanation memorable? Analogies, visuals, or even humor can transform dry facts into something sticky. Think of the “mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell” meme—it’s basic, but it works because it’s catchy.
4. Accuracy
Simplification is good, but oversimplification can spread misconceptions. For instance, saying “DNA is a ladder” helps visualize its structure, but it skips the nuances of base pairing and helical twisting. A balanced explanation acknowledges complexity without drowning in details.
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Common Pitfalls (and How to Fix Them)
Even experts stumble when explaining ideas. Here are three frequent mistakes:
1. The Curse of Knowledge
Once you understand something, it’s hard to imagine not knowing it. This leads to skipped steps or unclear terms.
Fix: Test your explanation on a friend who’s new to the topic. If they frown, backtrack and fill in the gaps.
2. One-Size-Fits-All Approach
A lecture-style monologue might work for some, but others need interactive Q&A, diagrams, or hands-on activities.
Fix: Offer multiple pathways. After explaining a concept verbally, share a video or infographic for visual learners.
3. Ignoring Emotional Barriers
Fear of asking “dumb” questions or past struggles with a subject can block learning. A dismissive tone (“This is basic stuff!”) amplifies this.
Fix: Normalize confusion. Say things like, “This tripped me up at first too—let’s unpack it together.”
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Case Study: Two Explanations, Two Outcomes
Let’s compare two ways to explain climate change:
Version 1 (Weak):
“Climate change refers to long-term shifts in global temperatures caused by anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, primarily CO2, resulting from fossil fuel combustion.”
Problem: Too technical. Words like “anthropogenic” and “combustion” lose most audiences.
Version 2 (Strong):
“Imagine Earth wearing a thick winter coat made of greenhouse gases. Burning coal, oil, and gas adds more layers to this coat, trapping heat. Over time, the planet overheats—leading to stronger storms, rising seas, and hotter summers. We need to switch to thinner, cleaner ‘fabrics’ like solar and wind energy.”
Why it works: It uses a relatable analogy, emphasizes consequences, and ends with a solution.
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The Power of “What Do You Think?”
Asking for feedback isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a tool for growth. Whether you’re teaching a class, leading a workshop, or just chatting with friends, inviting others to critique your explanation can:
– Reveal blind spots in your communication.
– Build trust by showing you value others’ perspectives.
– Spark deeper discussions that reinforce learning.
Next time someone shares an explanation, don’t just nod along. Ask yourself: Did that click? What’s still fuzzy? And if you’re the one explaining, embrace the question: “What do you guys think?” The answers might surprise you—and make your next explanation even better.
After all, the best teachers aren’t the ones with all the answers. They’re the ones who keep asking questions.
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