Clear Explanation Quotes

I suppose if you simplify things, it's going to make it easier to understand.

I was instructed long ago by a wise editor, "If you understand something you can explain it so that almost anyone can understand it. If you don't, you won't be able to understand your own explanation." That is why 90% of academic film theory is bullshit. Jargon is the last refuge of the scoundrel.

I am a firm believer that if you can explain it to a kid, you're on the right track.

You ought to be able to explain why you’re taking the job you’re taking, why you’re making the investment you’re making, or whatever it may be. And if it can’t stand applying pencil to paper, you’d better think it through some more. And if you can’t write an intelligent answer to those questions, don’t do it.

It is not at all simple to understand the simple.

If you can talk brilliantly about a problem

A mathematical theory is not to be considered complete until you have made it so clear that you can explain it to the first man whom you meet on the street.

The number one problem companies have during the Y Combinator interview is that a minute into the interview, we don't know what they do. It's the same problem with the application. You might think we're experts, but you still have to explain it to us.

Michael Lewis has the amazing ability to take complex formulas and concepts and turn them into page-turners.

If something can't be explained on the back of an envelope, it's rubbish.

You explain right well, and you shew that you understand argument and are not a mere sophist since you accept that which cannot be denied.

Many people are intimidated by doctors. ... People also feel stupid when they don't understand what a doctor's talking about the first time around, so they don't ask again. And let's be honest here, people. English is not a doctor's first language.

When you say: The simple truth is this, and then you pause, and then you finish the sentence, people stop, and they think specifically about what you're saying. And it's, in essence, trying to boil it down to something that's very understandable and meaningful.

A good sketch is better than a long speech.

The best way to solve a problem? Try explaining it to somebody outside your field.

What we have to do is put this in a coherent form for them at the end of the day, and on the big events, give them the kind of context that they deserve.

Creating a clear and engaging video explanation of a complex concept is a great way to demonstrate mastery and to help others understand and love the subject, too.

not to find out new principles, or new arguments, never before thought of . . . but to place before mankind the common sense of the subject, in terms so plain and firm as to command their assent, and to justify ourselves in the independent stand we are compelled to take.

There's no idea that can't be explained to a thoughtful 14-year-old. If the thoughtful 14-year-old doesn't get it, it is your fault, not the 14-year-old's.

The one thing that I do is take really complicated systems and subjects and make them accessible to regular people.

A preacher should have the skill to teach the unlearned simply roundly, and plainly; for teaching is of more importance than exhorting.

I want to be able to explain my mistakes. This means I do only the things I completely understand.

When you explain to people what you're trying to do, as opposed to just making demands or delegating tasks, you can build instant trust, even if it's just for that short time you're on the phone.

I found that it was easiest to convey the information in the context of the life of the scientist or in the context of our own personal experience, and there was no idea that was too complicated that couldn't be explained clearly and directly.

Did all this make sense?