Details, Detailed, In Detail -- what's the difference?

I came across this question on an English website a few months ago. For some reason, I did not post a reply to that question. Some other people answered, but merely used sample sentences, and did not really point out the clear distinction. Well, this is it. [I also posted this answer to that website.]

• In terms of part of speech, "details" functions as a noun, as in the sentence:

The details of the party have yet to be discussed.  

• "Detailed" functions as an adjective. Hence, it is used to describe something, as in the sentence:

The report gave a detailed account of the accident.  (detailed describes the word account, which is a noun)

• "In detail" functions as an adverb, particular, adverb of manner. In sentences, "in detail" usually modifies a verb, as in the sentence:

The coach explained the rules of the game in detail.  (in detail describes how well the coach EXPLAINED the rules).

Hope this helps!