Question asking

Asking effective questions

There's no such thing as a bad question [1]. However, you may find that some questions are easier to answer than others. This is a guide to asking effective questions [2], i.e. putting your question into words in such a way that it is as easy to answer as possible. 

Of course, the easier a question is to answer, the more likely it is that someone will answer it. More remarkably, however, you may find that following this procedure results in you being able to answer the question yourself [3]!

• Research your question. Review the section in your textbook and notes to see if there is a relevant discussion/example, or check the Discussion Forum to see if someone else has asked a similar question already.

• Provide some context. Include a summary of the problem statement along with what you've already tried and where you're stuck. A snapshot of your current understanding makes writing effective answers much easier.

• Ask your question. Try to actually pose a question as opposed to just declaring your troubles. For example, instead of saying "I don't know where to start!" try asking "What's a good way to get started?" This will give your reader more to work with. Also, it will keep you in a more productive mindset—"I don't get it!" is a self-fulfilling prophecy wherein you're doomed to never understand the problem, while "What am I missing?" keeps you moving toward a solution.

• Word your question carefully. Vague questions get vague answers, so be as specific as possible. Think about what sort of help you would like and ask your question accordingly. The more details you provide and the clearer you make your question, the more useful an answer can be. 

• Don't give up! The answers you receive are generally intended to help you build your understanding and complete the problem yourself.  Utilize the hints or suggestions to try the problem again and ask followup questions as needed.