Warning: I read a forum post saying you should always answer every question asked here

The post said if someone asks something, you have to give a full answer no matter what. I saw it last Tuesday on a different site. I disagree because some questions are just too vague or personal to answer well. For example, someone might ask 'how do I fix my life?' in a single sentence. Is it better to guess or to ask them for more details first? I think pushing back for clarity helps everyone. What's the line between being helpful and just filling space with noise?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_felix27d ago

Honestly, I once gave terrible advice because I answered a vague question too fast.

kimh6727d ago

But sometimes you have to just go with your gut, you know? I've found that waiting for perfect info means you never answer at all. Most questions are vague because people don't know how to ask for help yet. A quick, honest guess can start the real conversation they need.

ellis.victor8d ago

My first year on forums, I was all about quick replies. Kimh67 has a point about getting the ball rolling, but I learned the hard way like you did. Now I ask one clarifying question before typing anything.