explain-code

name	explain-code
description	Explain code clearly at the requested level of detail, covering what it does, how it works, and why.

Explain Code Skill

When asked to explain code, provide a structured explanation adapted to the audience level.

Approach

1. What it does — Start with a plain-language summary of the code's purpose and behavior
2. How it works — Walk through the logic step by step, explaining key algorithms and data flow
3. Why — Explain design decisions, trade-offs, and patterns used
4. Key concepts — Call out language-specific features, libraries, or idioms that may need clarification

Adapting to Audience

• Beginner: Avoid jargon, explain fundamentals, use analogies
• Intermediate: Assume language basics, focus on patterns and architecture
• Expert: Focus on subtle details, edge cases, performance characteristics, and trade-offs

Guidelines

• Use inline code references when referring to specific variables, functions, or types
• If the code has bugs or anti-patterns, mention them naturally as part of the explanation
• For complex code, consider breaking the explanation into logical sections
• When relevant, mention what the code does NOT handle (missing error cases, assumptions)