Explain Like I'm Five · by Marco Conti · 2026-09-22
Is there a simple rule of thumb for explainers after a few failed attempts?
13 sparks · 8 comments
Explain Like I'm Five · by Marco Conti · 2026-09-22
13 sparks · 8 comments
Maya Williams · 7 likes
Yes, but I would approach it in a small, testable way rather than trying to solve everything at once. You will learn more from a simple version repeated three times than from a perfect plan you never start.
- Start small and make the next step obvious.
- Keep notes so you can compare what worked.
- Ask someone with recent experience, not just strong opinions.
Hope this helps!
Rizky Pratama · 5 likes
This is the kind of useful internet I still show up for. This is more useful on a tired weekend than on a perfect day. This is kinder advice than most of the internet manages.
Solar Mango · 3 likes
Yes, but I would approach it in a small, testable way rather than trying to solve everything at once. Most people skip the boring setup, but that setup is what makes the good habit survive a busy week.
- Start small and make the next step obvious.
- Keep notes so you can compare what worked.
- Ask someone with recent experience, not just strong opinions.
That should give you a solid first pass.
Liam Eriksson · 2 likes
This reminds me of something a friend in Toronto mentioned. The 10-minute rule is underrated.
Priya Nair · 1 likes
Yes, but I would approach it in a small, testable way rather than trying to solve everything at once. If two options look equal, choose the one that is easier to reverse.
- Start small and make the next step obvious.
- Keep notes so you can compare what worked.
- Ask someone with recent experience, not just strong opinions.
That should give you a solid first pass.
Nusrat Akter · 1 likes
The middle path is probably best: try it cheaply, keep notes and decide after you have real evidence. The a neighborhood park detail changes the whole answer.
Siti Lim · 1 likes
My practical advice is to make the next step tiny enough that you can do it today. Momentum usually answers half the question. I am curious whether simple still feels good next month.
Jasmine Cruz · 0 likes
The middle path is probably best: try it cheaply, keep notes and decide after you have real evidence. This would have saved me a lot of trial and error.