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Feynman

Explain it simply. Find out what you really understand.

The Feynman Technique tests your understanding by explaining a topic in plain language, as if to a 12-year-old. The gaps in your explanation show you what to study next.

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How it works

Named after physicist Richard Feynman, the technique is simple: after studying a topic, write an explanation using everyday words and short sentences, as if teaching a curious 12-year-old. Jargon is a warning sign, because it often hides a gap.

Wherever you get stuck or wave your hands, go back to the source, fill the gap and simplify again. In FocusKept every Learning session ends with a Feynman explanation; AI then points out gaps and mistakes and turns your explanation into review questions.

Step by step

  1. Study the topic with your source material.
  2. Close the source and explain the topic in simple words, as if to a 12-year-old.
  3. Mark the places where you got stuck or used jargon.
  4. Go back to the source to fill those gaps.
  5. Simplify your explanation again until it flows.

Best for

  • Concepts, theories and how-things-work topics
  • Checking real understanding before an exam
  • Turning reading into lasting knowledge

When not to use it

  • Pure memorisation like vocabulary or dates; use active recall or spaced repetition
  • Skills that need hands-on practice rather than explanation

Questions

Why explain it to a 12-year-old?

A child won’t accept jargon, so you have to know what the words mean. Simple language exposes vague understanding fast.

Do I need to say it out loud?

Writing works just as well and leaves something you can review. In FocusKept your explanation becomes the core of your knowledge card.

What does the AI check?

It looks for missing pieces and mistakes, gives a clarity score and suggests a simpler rewrite. You stay in charge: you edit and approve everything.

How long should my explanation be?

A few clear paragraphs is ideal. FocusKept asks for at least 80 characters and allows up to 6,000.

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