HomeCasa Debunk a science myth with the truth sandwich method
Correct a myth or misconception without reinforcing it: a clear alternative explanation, the trick that makes it convincing, an analogy, verifiable consensus sources and replies to objections. Designed for ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and Perplexity. It includes 4 customizable variables and you can copy it for free in one click.
Beginner · Text · Pending editorial review
Prompt
Act as a science communicator who specializes in debunking. You follow research-based guidance on correcting misinformation: lead with the fact, mention the myth only once with a warning that it is false, explain the fallacy and end by reinforcing the fact (the truth sandwich).
Context:
- Myth or misconception: {{myth}}
- Audience: {{audience}}
- Channel: {{channel}}
- Tone: {{tone}}
Deliverables:
1. Diagnosis: which part of the myth contains some truth (if any), why it is convincing and which everyday intuition supports it.
2. Alternative explanation: what really happens, in plain language. It must fill the gap the myth leaves, not just deny it.
3. The technique or fallacy behind the myth (overgeneralization, false cause, anecdote, quote out of context, fake expert, etc.).
4. Final text structured as fact → warning and myth → fallacy → fact, adapted to the channel and its typical length.
5. One analogy or thought experiment that makes the explanation stick.
6. Sources: 2 to 4 consensus sources (scientific bodies, systematic reviews, public agencies) with link and date.
7. Three common objections from people who believe the myth, with a short, respectful reply to each.
8. What to avoid: lines that repeat the myth in the headline or mock people who believe it.
Constraints:
- Only cite real sources you could verify. Do not invent studies, figures or links; if you have no web access or are unsure, write [FILL IN: consensus source] and name which body to check.
- If the scientific consensus is nuanced or the question is still open, say so honestly instead of claiming more certainty than exists.
- If the myth is health-related, add a line recommending readers talk to a healthcare professional.
Format: a short diagnosis, the final text ready to publish, sources as a list and objections in a table.How to use it
Write the myth the way people actually say it, not in technical terms. Use Perplexity or another assistant with search to get sources you can open, and check every link. Publish the final text without putting the myth in the headline.
Usage example
Myth: "We only use 10% of our brains" · Audience: parents · Channel: Instagram post · Tone: friendly with light humor.
Sample output
Post copy (truth sandwich)
🧠 Your brain works full time. Even while you sleep, every region has a job, and brain scans show activity spread across the whole brain over the course of a day.
Heads-up on a popular myth: you've probably heard that "we only use 10% of our brains." It's appealing because it sounds hopeful: imagine the 90% waiting to be unlocked!
The trick: it confuses "not every area is active at once" with "most of it is never used." That's like saying you only use 10% of your house because you're in the kitchen right now.
What's actually true: your kids don't have 90% of their brain asleep waiting to wake up. What grows with learning, play and sleep are the connections between neurons, and those really can be trained. 💪
Consensus sources
- [SOURCE TO VERIFY: public explainer from a neuroscience society]
- [SOURCE TO VERIFY: review or article from a public health agency]
Common objections
| Objection | Reply |
|---|---|
| "Einstein said it" | There's no reliable record that he did, and even if he had, he wasn't a neuroscientist. |
| "Then why aren't I a genius?" | Using your whole brain doesn't mean using it all at once or at full power; it's teamwork. |
Avoid
- Headlines that repeat the myth ("Do we only use 10%?").
…
Key facts
- Category
- Science · Scientific concepts
- Output type
- Text
- Level
- Beginner
- Designed for
- ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and Perplexity
- Verified in
- Pending editorial verification
- Variables
- Myth or misconception, Audience, Channel and Tone
- Language
- English
- Price
- Free, no sign-up
- Updated
- Nov 7, 2026
Frequently asked questions
What is a truth sandwich?
A structure for correcting misinformation: start with the fact, mention the myth once with a warning, explain why it misleads and close with the fact again. That way the correct information is what people remember.
Why is it not enough to say something is false?
Because the myth leaves a gap in people's explanation of the world. If you do not fill it with a clear alternative, they tend to fall back on the original idea.
What is this prompt for?
Correct a myth or misconception without reinforcing it: a clear alternative explanation, the trick that makes it convincing, an analogy, verifiable consensus sources and replies to objections.
Which AI tools does it work with?
It is designed for ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and Perplexity. We have not verified it in these tools yet, so results may vary between them.
How do I customize the prompt?
Click “Customize” and fill in the variables (Myth or misconception, Audience, Channel and Tone). The text updates instantly and you can then copy it in one click. Values are stored only in your browser.
Do I need experience to use it?
No. It is a beginner-level prompt: just fill in the details and paste it into your AI tool.
Is this prompt free?
Yes. Every HomeCasa Prompts prompt is free, with no sign-up or subscription. You can also use them in professional projects.
Can I trust the AI output?
Treat it as a high-quality draft: always check data, figures and important claims before publishing or making decisions.