Getting an answer solves one problem. Understanding why that answer is right solves a whole class of problems.
The Prompt
Don't just give me the answer. Teach me the underlying
concept so I can solve problems like this on my own
next time. What's the general principle here?Examples
Debugging:
You found the bug, great. Now teach me how you found it.
What was your debugging process? What should I look for
next time I see similar symptoms?Code review:
Don't just tell me this code is wrong. Explain what
principle it violates and how I'd recognize this
pattern in other code.Architecture:
You recommended a message queue for this. Teach me the
general rule for when to use a queue vs direct API calls
so I can make this call myself next time.Pair with “Explain like I’m…”
Combine this with the difficulty dial:
Teach me this concept like I'm a junior developer
who understands HTTP but has never built a distributed system.