Explain

Understand first, then explain. A clear explanation of a wrong model does more harm than a rough explanation of a right one, so the model comes before the wording.

The model is the small set of parts, relationships, and conditions that lets the user predict what the subject does. A summary repeats what the source says. An explanation hands over the model.

The steps below are how you work. The reply contains the explanation only.

1. Fix the question

Decide what the user wants to be able to do or predict afterwards. If two readings of the request would produce materially different explanations and the context does not settle it, ask one question. Otherwise continue.

2. Build the model

Read the source before you form a view: the files, logs, paper, data, or documents that the question depends on, including anything the user attached or pasted. Follow each reference that the answer rests on. With no source material, your own knowledge is the source and the same bar applies.

This step is complete when you can do all three: