Choose one unclear point

Start with a word, instruction or next step that you do not understand. Write the exact phrase if you have it. Leave a question mark where information is missing; you do not need to guess what the phrase means before asking about it.

MedlinePlus explains that health literacy includes finding, understanding and using health information. Its guidance also encourages people to ask a health care provider for an explanation they understand and, when helpful, written instructions.

Give your card three lines

  • The phrase or instruction I want explained: ____
  • My question in everyday words: ____
  • The explanation or written instruction I want to keep: ____

These are conversation prompts. The card does not decide what an instruction means or tell you which medical action to take. You can use a piece of paper or a private note you already know how to find.

Try a worked example

Imagine an appointment ends with an instruction you cannot follow confidently. This is an invented everyday scenario, not a medical case.

Your first line might say, “I did not understand the next step.” The second could be, “Could you explain what happens next in everyday words?” On the last line, leave space for the answer or note, “Please write the instruction down for me.”

Keep the question close to the point that confused you. There is no need to add a long story or turn it into a test of medical vocabulary.

Leave space for a second question

After the explanation, check whether your original question was answered. If something remains unclear, mark that part and ask again. Avoid filling the gap with an assumption from this worksheet.

The useful result is a note you can return to, with the provider's explanation clearly separated from your own questions. This planning aid does not interpret symptoms, diagnose a condition or replace an individual conversation with a qualified professional.