Why Ask to Ask When You Can Just Ask?

Aldy Kusuma

I Putu Aldy Cahyakusuma

Software Engineer

1 min read min read

May 05, 2024

Have you encountered vague requests like this in online forums?

Case 1:

"Any Flutter Expert around?"

This type of inquiry lacks clarity and can be seen as lazy. Instead, provide specific details about your issue and show respect for the community's expertise. By doing so, you increase your chances of receiving helpful responses tailored to your needs.

Case 2:

Imagine receiving a message from someone stating, "Hey, I have a question" leaving you waiting for them to elaborate. Instead of diving straight into their problem, they wait for you to inquire further. This back-and-forth exchange can feel like a needless delay.

Consider this alternative approach:

Rather than leading with a vague statement, why not provide a concise summary of the issue upfront? For instance, "Hi, I'm encountering [specific problem] while working with Flutter. I've attempted [troubleshooting steps], but without success. Could you lend a hand?"

By presenting the problem and relevant context from the outset, you eliminate the need for additional probing questions. This direct approach not only saves time but also ensures a more productive exchange.

The key takeaway here is simple: when seeking assistance, be proactive in communicating your needs. By doing so, you streamline the process for both parties involved, fostering clearer and more efficient communication.

The point here is not to ask, just ask.

Thanks for reading.

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