This AI prompt hack boosts ChatGPT results every time

ChatGPT has evolved from a simple AI assistant into a versatile learning tool, with the “explain it like I’m a child” prompt emerging as a powerful method for quickly grasping complex concepts. While this approach might seem simplistic, it transforms dense, technical information into accessible explanations that create a foundation for deeper understanding. The prompt’s flexibility allows users to customize explanations to their exact knowledge level, making it an increasingly valuable educational resource for demystifying everything from scientific concepts to technical processes.

Why this matters: The ability to quickly understand unfamiliar topics at varying levels of complexity has become essential in today’s fast-paced information landscape.

• This approach transforms learning from a linear process into a conversational exchange where users can progressively build understanding through back-and-forth dialogue.
• By starting with simplified explanations, users can establish foundational understanding before exploring more nuanced details.

The key technique: While “explain it like I’m a child” was the original popular prompt, users can now customize explanations to match their specific knowledge level.

• For complete beginners, asking ChatGPT to “explain black holes to an adult who has no understanding of science” yields accessible explanations without the childish tone.
• The author demonstrates how ChatGPT responds to this prompt with a clear explanation: “A black hole is what you get when a massive star runs out of fuel and collapses in on itself… That’s why it looks ‘black’: we can’t see what’s inside because light itself gets trapped.”

How to optimize the approach: The conversational nature of ChatGPT allows users to refine explanations through follow-up requests.

• If an explanation remains too complex, users can ask for further simplification, metaphors, or visual descriptions.
• Conversely, if explanations are oversimplified, users can request more advanced information by specifying a higher knowledge level, such as “explain this concept like I’m a University student.”

Behind the strategy: Starting with simplified explanations represents a reverse-engineering approach to learning.

• The author notes that they often found themselves “having to work backwards with subjects until I understand them,” making this approach a more efficient starting point.
• This method allows users to build progressively more sophisticated understanding through guided conversation rather than wrestling with complex material from the beginning.