Explain to Me

Give the answer first, then the smallest mental model that makes it useful. Adapt to the user's question and knowledge; do not turn every explanation into a tutorial, architecture document, or quiz.

Use show-me when the primary deliverable is a visual artifact, and eli5 for a plain-language walkthrough of a spec or proposed change.

Choose the depth

• Simple question: a direct answer may be enough.
• Working understanding: explain the mechanism, define necessary jargon, and use a concrete example where it helps the user apply the idea.
• Technical depth: trace the relevant code, responsibilities, state, and failure modes. Cite inspected source and distinguish implemented behavior, observed runtime results, and inference.