The Power of Step-by-Step Explanations

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The Power of Step-by-Step Explanations

Remember those moments when you wished your teachers could slow down and explain a concept in more detail, but they had to move on to keep the lesson on track? Or perhaps you were the student who already understood the material and felt disengaged when the teacher spent too much time reviewing a question that only a few students struggled with. At Winward Academy, we’ve eliminated these problems by personalizing learning for each student. 

We provide over 10,000 explanations that are unique to each question with immediate, in-depth feedback. Students do not get general explanations for how to answer that type of question, but rather they get specific explanations for each question itself. 

Moreover, our step-by-step explanations for every question model each step of the process to dissect and annotate the question, working through each answer choice so students understand why the right answer is right and why the wrong answers are wrong. 

Winward Academy’s Step-by-Step Explanations
Our video-based recorded explanations ensure students get their questions answered quickly and efficiently. With this feature, students do the following:
  • Review the questions they need to save time and avoid making the same errors
  • Learn strategies immediately after attempting a problem, creating a tight feedback loop as they work
  • Benefit from having a content expert explain each question whether they are in class, at home, or on the road

How to Maximize the Benefits of Step-by-Step Explanations

Historically, students preparing for a standardized exam would have to rely on written explanations in a textbook or online resource. However, this approach often lacked clarity and made it difficult for students to understand the underlying concepts. That’s where Winward Academy’s video-based step-by-step explanations come in. With our exclusive partnerships with ACT and the College Board, we can provide step-by-step explanations from their real published exams.

Step-by-Step Explanations Support Learning
Step-by-Step Explanations Support Learning

As students work through practice questions, they receive immediate feedback on every answer, both correct and incorrect. They also have access to video-based, step-by-step explanations for each question, which helps them learn strategies and avoid making the same errors. These explanations are designed to be clear, concise, and easy to understand, making it easier for students to grasp the underlying concepts.

But that’s not all. Our step-by-step explanations also provide a foundation for deeper understanding. By hearing concepts explained in clear and conceptual ways, students are empowered to better articulate their own understanding. As students review each explanation, they also have the opportunity to write problem-solving hints in their own words, which are included in their personalized study guide. This process helps them better understand the material and develop the skills they need to succeed on the test. 

Research-Based & Evidence-Based Approach

We’re committed to providing a research-based and evidence-based approach to learning. Our platform emphasizes deeper understanding of academic concepts, and built-in video-based step-by-step explanations are a vital tool.

Here are some of the key learning principles that inspired the step-by-step explanations on our platform:

Providing specific, clear feedback

According to the Education Endowment Foundation (2016), students must receive specific and accurate feedback on all answers. Our platform offers supportive feedback on every answer – correct or incorrect – and video-based explanations for every practice question.

Speaking your language

Drs. Weinstein and Mayer (2016) found that students who paraphrase in their own words achieve a deeper understanding. Our platform allows students to write problem-solving hints in their own words, which are included in their personalized study guide. The video explanations help students hear it from Dr. Winward before putting it in their own words.

Learning from mistakes

We know that students learn when they can unpack their mistakes and internalize the correct way to solve the problem (Wills et al., 2007). Our platform provides immediate, in-depth feedback on missed questions, a game-changer for students to learn from their mistakes on real tests and complete detailed test corrections on the questions they need to review.

Step-by-step explanations are a core part of how students learn on Winward Academy, and we hope more students use this powerful tool to achieve their goals. At Winward Academy, we’re committed to helping students succeed academically and develop the skills and knowledge required for college and beyond. 

Our platform also tracks students’ growth and areas for improvement in real-time, enabling teachers to provide targeted support and guidance. Whether you’re a student preparing for the ACT/SAT or an educator looking for a more effective way to teach, our platform is an invaluable resource sure to make a difference.


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About Winward Academy – Winward Academy is one of the world’s leading innovators in the online education space, providing web-based academic support that enhances students’ knowledge, confidence, and competitiveness in middle and high school academics and in college applications. We help thousands of students every year by providing personalized, comprehensive ACT and SAT test preparation and extensive math curriculum support. The Winward Academy learning platform honors over 40 years of education and cognitive psychology research, incorporating proven techniques that promote effective learning.

Winward Academy’s unmatched reputation is wholly attributable to our students’ exceptional success and to the trust earned among students, parents, and schools around the world.

Thomas O'Brien

Thomas O’Brien (Vice President of Success & Engagement) – Before joining Winward Academy, Mr. O’Brien was a nationally award-winning high school principal and math teacher. As an educator, he participated in the National Education Policy Fellowship through America Achieves. As a school leader, he participated in the Uncommon Schools Instructional Fellowship, the National Principal Academy Fellowship and Inclusive School Leadership Institute through the Relay Graduate School of Education, the Math For America School Leader Fellowship, and the Compass-in-Leadership Fellowship with Valor Collegiate Schools. Mr. O’Brien supports teachers and school leaders with ongoing data analyses, reports, intervention strategies, and engagement activities.