Ask Smarter, Learn More
11 Sep 2024
We’ve all experienced those moments when we’re deeply immersed in a project and suddenly hit a roadblock. Despite our best efforts, nothing seems to work, and we decide to seek help. To ensure that the assistance you receive is not only useful in the immediate situation but also valuable for future reference, it’s crucial to ask smart questions.
What is a smart question?
The secret to getting good help is in the details. Be specific about where you’re stuck, and don’t make the other person guess. They need to clearly understand your situation. Use proper grammar, choose your words carefully, and be clear about your goal. Keep your question objective — leave out your assumptions or guesses about the problem.
Let’s examine a not so smart question This question is vague and unclear. It inquires about writing payment APIs but lacks detail on what has been attempted, what is already known, or what specific issues are being faced. It also shows a lack of research, as there’s no indication that any effort has been made to explore solutions independently. Additionally, the inclusion of a long string of “ssssss” detracts from the professionalism and clarity of the question
In contrast, look at this smart question This question is well-structured and clear, specifying the goal of handling multiple exceptions with the same response. It details the exact problem and provides examples of what has been tried, along with explanations for why those attempts didn’t succeed. This approach demonstrates effort and helps others understand and address the issue more effectively.
Now that you understand what makes a smart question, once you’ve asked your question, don’t overlook one final step: courtesy. Being polite makes a difference. Always say “please” and show gratitude by thanking them for their time. It demonstrates that you value their help and appreciate that they’re offering it for free.
Handling Criticism: Learning from Responses
Finally, when seeking help, it’s essential to remember that not everyone will respond with the same kindness and patience that you might offer others. While many in tech communities are genuinely willing to assist and provide constructive feedback, some responses may come across as brusque or less supportive. This is a natural part of the experience, especially online where anonymity can lead to more direct communication. Even when faced with tough or critical responses, view them as opportunities for growth rather than personal affronts. Stay calm, take the advice gracefully, and use it to reflect and improve. Every interaction is a chance to learn, and maintaining a positive attitude will help you grow and succeed in the long run.