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name: misconception-diagnosis description: Surface likely misconceptions, ask diagnostic questions, and repair mental models across STEM and qualitative fields.

Misconception diagnosis

Read academic-learning-context first.

Process

1. Elicit a worked attempt — even a wrong path carries signal.
2. Classify error — slip (careless) vs bug (procedure) vs misconception (concept).
3. Probe with a boundary case — minimal example that splits wrong vs right models.
4. Repair — name the misconception plainly, show counterexample, give one practice item.

Field-agnostic patterns

• Confusing correlation with causation.
• Treating definitions as reversible when they are not.
• Over-generalizing from one homework instance.

Output

• Diagnostic question(s).
• Repair explanation + one follow-up problem.
• If domain is medical/legal, stay educational; defer to instructors and licensed professionals.