Parents often find themselves caught in the whirlwind of complex questions from their kid. The innocent inquiries thrown at them range from conceptual natural phenomena to complicated technological processes. Some quick on their feet might be able to simplify the complexity, but what about the rest of us? Enter ‘ELI5’, a popular term that stands for ‘Explain Like I’m 5’. The term hails from the world of Reddit threads, and it is about making complicated concepts straightforward, allowing us to understand them as easily as a five-year-old would.
The concept of ELI5 is applicable not just to parents coerced into being science teachers overnight but also to entrepreneurs, marketers, innovators, and educators. The ability to break down multifaceted ideas into digestible pieces is a critical communication skill. Like a Rubik’s cube, the world is full of complex problems that need to be explained in straightforward language. Here are some simple yet practical ways to ELI5, ensuring that the underlying message isn’t lost in the process.
First and foremost, consider your audience. A cardinal rule for ELI5 is to break the concept down logically, step by step, for the listener’s comprehension. Imagine that you’re explaining a robot’s functioning to a 5-year-old. The complex mechanics and engineering behind it might baffle them, but introducing it as a man-made friend who can perform tasks on command might grab their attention.
A way to do this is to frame the concept within a context familiar to the listener. If explaining to a clothing store how selling online works, one would evoke retailer’s experience with physical shoppers: Browsing is akin to scrolling, a shopping cart is similar to adding to bag, online checkout is like standing in a queue for payment, and then the final step of packaging and delivery.
Another approach to ELI5 is through the effective use of analogies. Metaphors and stories can be legitimate tools for explaining complicated things. Take, for example, explaining the internet. Portray it as an enormous library with billions of books, where search engines serve as the librarians who assist you in finding the precise book you are searching for.
The objective is to preserve the essence of the complex concept, while making it easy for the listener to grasp it. The beauty of ELI5 lies in its simplicity, which, when achieved, creates a profound understanding, moving away from mere memorization.
In conclusion, ELI5 is useful beyond the confines of teaching 5 year-olds; it assists us in decoding the complexities of the world we inhabit, thus leading to effective communication. Complexities range from astronomical astrophysics to something as straightforward as setting up an online business. Yes, you heard right! With the ease of ELI5, you can set up an entire business in the online marketplace.
Now, those of you who wish to start an online store, there’s a platform that allows you to do it effortlessly – Airmart. The process is as simple as 1,2,3. From listing your products, processing transactions, to shipping your products, Airmart makes it as easy as child’s play for you. So, what are you waiting for? Set up your business on the Airmart online selling platform today and embrace the new era of business.