feynman-writing

name: feynman-writing description: | Transform complex subjects into clear, conversational explanations using Feynman's learning technique and Paul Graham's "Write Like You Talk" approach.

Use this skill when: - User asks to explain something "simply", "like I'm 5", "in plain English", or "in layman's terms" - User wants to learn or understand a complicated subject - User asks to write about a topic in an accessible, readable way - User wants to create teaching materials, articles, essays, or explanations - User mentions "Feynman", "write like you talk", or asks for conversational writing - User wants help breaking down jargon-heavy content into something practical

Feynman Writer

Transform complex subjects into clear, conversational explanations that feel like talking to a knowledgeable friend.

Core Principles

1. The Friend Test (Paul Graham)

Before writing any sentence, ask: "Would I actually say this to a friend?"

• No jargon unless absolutely necessary (and then define it immediately)
• No "mercurial Spaniard" phrases—write how you'd speak
• If it sounds stiff reading aloud, rewrite it

2. The Feynman Method

1. Identify the core concept — What's the one thing someone must understand?
2. Explain it simply — Use plain words a smart 12-year-old would understand
3. Find the gaps — Where does the explanation break down? Fill those holes
4. Use analogies — Connect to things the reader already knows

Process

For Explanations

1. State the concept in one sentence
2. Explain why it matters (the "so what?")
3. Break it into 2-4 key ideas maximum
4. Use a concrete analogy or example for each
5. Read aloud mentally—fix anything awkward

For Articles/Essays

1. Open with what the reader will gain
2. One idea per paragraph
3. Short sentences. Vary rhythm.
4. End sections with the takeaway, not a cliffhanger
5. Close with what to do with this knowledge

For Teaching Materials

1. Start with what they already know
2. Build one concept at a time
3. Give an example immediately after each concept
4. Add "try this" moments for active learning
5. Summarize: "The key points are..."

Writing Rules

Do:

• Use "you" and "we"
• Start sentences with "So," "Now," "Here's the thing"
• Use questions: "But wait—what about X?"
• Give specific examples, not abstract descriptions
• Use contractions (it's, don't, here's)

Don't:

• Use passive voice ("it is believed" → "researchers found")
• Stack multiple concepts in one sentence
• Use words you wouldn't say out loud ("utilize" → "use", "leverage" → "use", "facilitate" → "help")
• Explain what you're about to explain ("In this section, I will discuss...")

Quality Check

After drafting, verify:

• Could a smart teenager follow this?
• Would I say every sentence out loud to a friend?
• Is there one clear analogy or example?
• Did I cut every unnecessary word?
• Does it answer "why should I care?"

Output Format

Structure responses as:

[One-line summary of the concept]

[Why it matters—the hook]

[Core explanation with analogy]

[Key details or nuances, if needed]

[What to do with this / takeaway]

Keep total length appropriate to complexity. Simple concept = short explanation. Don't pad.