To explain means to make something clear by describing how it works or why it happened. When your teacher explains long division, she breaks down each step so you can understand the process. When you explain to your parents why you're late getting home, you tell them the reasons and details so they understand the situation.

Good explanations help people see what you see. If you've read a book your friend hasn't, you might explain the plot by describing the main events in order. If you've figured out a tricky level in a video game, you could explain your strategy by walking someone through what you did. Scientists explain their discoveries by showing their evidence and reasoning. A good explanation answers the questions “how?” or “why?” in a way that makes sense to your audience.

The clearer your explanation, the better others can learn from you or understand your thinking. Sometimes explaining something to someone else even helps you understand it better.