The 4-step process to explain things more effectively

By Brian Maynor

 

We’ve all been there; frustrated and annoyed that no matter how we try explaining something it just isn’t connecting with our audience.

Instead of letting our frustrations get the best of us, and our idea, take a breath and remember it isn’t anyone’s fault.  We all absorb information differently and exacerbation never helps.

What if there was a simple way to better communicate that guaranteed an easier time understanding?  Luckily Richard Paul, Linda Elder and Gerald Nosich have found and refined that way.  The SEE-I method is a critical thinking technique that helps us clarify our ideas so they are easier to understand.

Here is a breakdown of the four steps and how they make communicating more effective:

1.   State It.  Before we can start explaining something we need to state our idea or concept clearly and succinctly.  That means boiling it down to one or two sentences.  It also helps us to make sure everyone is on the same page from the very beginning.

2.    Elaborate On It.  This step is when we give more information, in our own words, that makes the point more relatable, understandable and approachable.  “In other words” is a great transitional and introductory phrase to start this step.

3.    Exemplify.  Now we get into examples and illustrations of the concept or idea.  “For example” is commonly used as a transitional phrase here.  It is usually beneficial to use several examples, especially when conveying a complex idea.

4.    Illustrate.  Being a visual person, I can personally attest the benefit of seeing an image; picture; chart or other depiction that represents the concept both as a whole and its various pieces.  It helps me align and organize my thoughts and ideas when I have a visual framework and reference.

The goal of presenting our thoughts and ideas is sharing them, but that can be difficult when people can’t understand them.  This method is both simple to use and effective at communicating our point and illustrating it.  It also shows off our understanding of the concept, which builds confidence in the audience and ourselves.

Another great thing about this concept is that it can be used to explain anything to anyone.  Give it a try the next time you’re presenting and see how it goes.

 

 

  

 

I’m always excited to hear from you, so please email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected].

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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