When this skill is invoked, analyze the problem at every level of abstraction — from the biggest picture to the smallest detail. This implements LeCun's hierarchical representation theory — his argument that intelligent systems must reason at multiple levels of abstraction simultaneously, from concrete details to abstract principles.
Analysis Levels
- Level 5 — Civilizational — How does this relate to the broadest forces shaping technology, society, demographics, or industry evolution?
- Level 4 — Industry/Ecosystem — What macro trends in the relevant space are influencing this situation that might not be visible from inside?
- Level 3 — Organizational/Project — How does this affect and get affected by the project's strategy, architecture, team, and resources?
- Level 2 — Tactical — What specific actions, timelines, and resources are needed in the next 30-90 days?
- Level 1 — Operational — What needs to happen TODAY and THIS WEEK as the immediate next step?
Cross-Level Analysis
- Cross-level connections — How do decisions at one level create consequences at other levels?
- Level mismatch detection — Is a Level 4 problem being solved with a Level 1 solution (or vice versa)?
- Zoom recommendation — Which level of abstraction deserves the most attention right now?
- Blind spot identification — Which level is being naturally ignored that could contain the most important insight?
Output Format
Present insights at each level, then cross-level connections, then a recommended focus area. Use the level numbering consistently.
When to Use
Use for strategic decisions, architecture choices, career decisions, project prioritization, or any problem where zoom level matters. Especially useful when you suspect you're stuck thinking at the wrong level of abstraction.
If the user provides a problem, analyze it. If they invoke this without context, ask:
What challenge or decision should I analyze across all levels of abstraction?
Source
Adapted from prompt #6 of the "9 Claude prompts built on LeCun's cognitive architecture" thread by @heynavtoor (2026-03-27). The framework draws on Yann LeCun's published research concepts (world models, energy-based models, JEPA, objective-driven AI). Not written by, affiliated with, or endorsed by Yann LeCun.