Work out why a concept still isn't sticking

I have studied {{topic}} and it still does not click. Act as a diagnostician, not a re-explainer. Here is my own explanation of it, in my words, mistakes included: {{write your understanding, however wrong}}. Here is where I get stuck in practice: {{the problem, question type, or task that defeats me}}.

Do this and nothing else first:
1. READ MY EXPLANATION BACK — quote the specific sentences that are wrong or vague, and name the misconception behind each. Do not correct them yet.
2. THE MISSING PREREQUISITE — the one earlier idea I probably never solidified. Give the two-question test that confirms or rules it out.
3. THE CONFUSION PAIR — the two things I am likely conflating, and the single distinguishing question that separates them every time.
4. Now correct it, in one paragraph, using only ideas I already showed I understand.
5. Three problems, in rising difficulty, each targeting a different one of my errors. Answers below, separately, so I can try first.
6. THE SIGNAL — what I will be able to do when this has actually landed.

Ask me the section 2 questions before assuming the answer. Do not tell me I am close if I am not, and do not use an analogy that quietly restates the misconception.