Inspiration
Many students struggle with homework not because they’re lazy, but because most tools only give final answers without explanation. I was inspired by seeing students repeatedly ask “How did you get this?” ExplainIt AI was created to bridge that gap by focusing on understanding, not memorization.
What it does
ExplainIt AI is a web-based learning assistant that provides clear, step-by-step explanations for homework questions. Instead of jumping straight to the answer, the system explains the reasoning behind each step and verifies the final result, helping students truly understand the solution.
How I built it
The frontend was built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for a simple and accessible user experience. The backend uses PHP to handle requests and communicate with Gemini AI, which generates structured explanations through carefully designed prompts. MySQL is used for storing system data and interactions when needed.
Challenges I ran into
One major challenge was prompting the AI to consistently explain why each step is taken instead of returning short or final answers. Another challenge was keeping explanations clear, beginner-friendly, and well-structured without overwhelming the user.
Accomplishments that I'm proud of
Successfully built a working AI-powered explanation system Achieved structured, step-by-step reasoning instead of answer-only output Designed the system to feel like a personal tutor, not a calculator Completed the project as a solo developer
What I learned
I learned how important prompt engineering is when working with generative AI. I also improved my skills in system design, backend integration with AI APIs, and building educational tools that prioritize clarity and user understanding.
What's next for ExplainIt AI
Future improvements include image-based question input using OCR, support for more subjects, personalized learning progress tracking, and adaptive explanations based on a student’s level.
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