Explain Like I’m Five

Last Updated on January 24, 2024 by Ivan Cocherga

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“Explain Like I’m Five” (ELI5) is a concept and popular subreddit where complex ideas, subjects, or phenomena are explained in a way that is simple and easy to understand, as if the person explaining were talking to a five-year-old. This doesn’t mean the explanation is condescending or oversimplified but rather that it’s stripped of jargon and complexity to focus on the core concepts in an accessible manner.

Pros:

1. Accessibility: By breaking down complex topics into fundamental components, ELI5 makes information accessible to a wider audience, regardless of their prior knowledge or education level.
2. Clarity: It encourages clear, jargon-free communication, making it easier for individuals to understand and remember the information.
3. Engagement: The simple and often creative explanations can make learning more engaging and enjoyable, potentially sparking further interest in the subject matter.

Cons:

1. Oversimplification: There’s a risk of oversimplifying complex concepts, which can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations of the topic.
2. Lack of Depth: While ELI5 is great for getting the gist of a subject, it might not provide the depth or detail required for a comprehensive understanding, especially in academic or professional contexts.
3. Accuracy: Simplifying complex topics might sometimes lead to inaccuracies or the omission of important nuances and caveats.

Use Cases:

1. Education: ELI5 is particularly useful in educational settings where teachers aim to introduce students to new or challenging topics.
2. Communication: Professionals, especially in technical fields, use ELI5 to explain their work to non-experts, such as stakeholders, clients, or a general audience.
3. Content Creation: Writers, bloggers, and content creators use ELI5 to make their content more accessible and engaging to a broader audience.

Prices:
Generally, ELI5 as a concept doesn’t have a price attached to it. It’s a free exchange of knowledge, especially popular on platforms like the ELI5 subreddit. However, if you’re seeking professional services that use the ELI5 approach (like educational services, content creation, or communication training), prices can vary widely based on the provider, scope, and context of the service.