How I Use AI to Simplify Complex Topics

Some topics are naturally complex for me, like organic chemistry, biology, and medical science. On the other hand, I find some subjects easier to understand, like solid mechanics, Newtonian physics, or programming (Python, JS, etc.).

Even when the complexity level is the same, the ease of understanding can vary depending on familiarity. For example, someone passionate about cancer research might read a blog post on the topic and rate its understandability as 9/10. But since I'm not familiar with that field, I might find it extremely difficult, maybe a 2/10. It’s frustrating because even if I read it two or three times, I still don’t fully understand the concept.

Here’s my personal hack that I’ve come up with: I ask AI to explain things in simple words, as if talking to someone who is not a native English speaker, and to use analogies.

For example, I wanted to understand what DNA, genes, Morse code, proteins, and the epigenome are. Previously, I would ask:

"Explain what DNA, genes, Morse code, proteins, and the epigenome are in short."

Now, I ask:

"Explain DNA, genes, Morse code, proteins, and the epigenome with an analogy, as if you’re speaking to a non-native English speaker.Keep it short and simple."

I’ve found that explanations with analogies are the most powerful way to understand new concepts. They fit right into your brain. The analogy doesn’t have to be perfectly accurate, but once you have something relatable to hold onto, understanding the complex definitions becomes much easier.