How does gene editing work? (simplified)

Gene editing is like a molecular scissor that cuts DNA at specific spots. When we cut DNA, the cell's natural repair machinery kicks in. Think of it like fixing a torn page—sometimes it may not be perfect. There are two main ways cells fix these DNA cuts: one is like gluing the torn ends together (nonhomologous end joining or NHEJ), and the other is like replacing the torn part with a new piece of paper (homologous repair or HR).