Have you ever tried to ask a question on the internet, only resulting in getting negative answers or being ignored? Asking questions in anonymous communities is a much more complex art than many people believe. You can't just ask a question and expect to get an answer right away; on your part you will have to do your best if you want to get some answers. Start reading from step 1 to see how to ask questions so they get answers.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Looking for Answers
Step 1. Do an internet search
Before asking your question, do an internet search and see what results you get. You can formulate your research in the form of a question, or use keywords.
- Researching before asking the question is very important. If your question sounds too easy, you will most likely get negative answers.
- If you want to search on a specific site, add “site: example.com” at the end of the key phrase; Google will only show results from the site you specify.
Step 2. Assume that the question has been asked previously
The internet is a huge place, and you most likely won't be the first person in the world to encounter a certain problem. Take some time to look for answers to your question that have been received by users who have asked before you. This will save you a lot of time and a lot of headaches.
Step 3. Check the FAQ
Many products and services have a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page on their web page. On this page you will find answers to common questions asked by users. Try to find a FAQ on the topic you are interested in, if it exists.
Step 4. Write down partial responses
If you find sources that provide partial answers, take note. You can use these answers and sources to formulate your question, to show other users that you have already done your research, and to help respondents to be more specific.
Part 2 of 3: Finding the Right Place to Ask
Step 1. Review your application
Determine which business or science sector you would like to receive a response from. For example, if you have a question about computers, you will need to contact a computer expert. If your question concerns a real estate property, it will be better to contact a real estate agency.
Step 2. Address your question to a specific niche
Once the general sector is narrowed down, look at your question and determine which category it belongs to. In each general category there are a variety of sub-categories. For example, if your technology question is about Windows, you should direct it to a Windows expert. If your question is about a Windows-specific program, such as Photoshop, you should ask a Photoshop expert.
Step 3. Search for a forum in the industry you need
Enter the sector and add the word "forum". For example, if you need to ask a question about Photoshop, search for "Photoshop Forum".
In almost all forums, registration (free) is required in order to start posting
Step 4. Find a chat room dedicated to your topic
In addition to forums, you may be able to find more immediate answers by joining a chat room dedicated to your topic. The most popular chat room network is Internet Relay Chat (IRC), which contains an astonishing number of chats for any topic imaginable. You will find more information on using IRC in this guide.
Step 5. Use popular question sites
There are many sites that allow you to post any question and hope it will be answered. These sites may be a good idea for general questions, but they probably won't provide you with comprehensive answers to specific questions in a particular industry. Take all the answers you receive with a grain of salt. Some such sites are:
- Stack Exchange
- Ask.com
- Yahoo Answers
- Quora
- Wiki Answers
Step 6. Learn about forum culture
Each community on the internet has its own style and rules (written and unwritten). Spend some time reading the other posts before writing one yourself, in this way you will be able to learn the specific forum netiquette. Knowing how to ask the question in a way that fits the forum culture can help you get the answers you need.
Part 3 of 3: Formulate the Question
Step 1. Make the title a succinct version of the question
When creating a forum post for your question, try to make the post title as specific and clear as possible. You can use the post body to add details, but readers should be able to understand the nature of your question from the title.
For example: “Windows doesn't work” is not a good title. Rather, try to be more specific: "Windows 7 does not start, the computer turns on normally but at boot I get the following error message"
Step 2. Explain the details in the body of the message
After writing the title, explain the details in the body of the message. Make a list of the specific problems you have encountered and the solutions you have taken to try to solve them. Make a note and list the sources you have turned to. The more specific you are, the more helpful answers the question will get.
If you have a technical question, be sure to provide the necessary information. For example, for questions about computers, list your operating system, system specifications and any error messages obtained. For questions about cars, list the make and model and the part of the car you are having problems with
Step 3. Write clearly and politely
You will get more responses if your post is written with good grammar and a clear style. Avoid using exclamation marks, and don't swear at all - even if you're extremely frustrated with the problem. If the forum language is not your native language, please explain this and apologize in advance for any spelling or grammar errors.
Avoid internet slang. For example, don't replace “you” with “u” and don't write ALL CAPS - this means you're yelling
Step 4. Ask one question at a time
Even if you have more than one problem, limit yourself to one question per post. This way other users can better focus on the problem and give you clear advice. If the reader opens your question to be faced with five more questions, they will most likely not answer at all.
Step 5. Keep your mind open
There is the possibility that you do not like the answers you receive. There is also the possibility that the answer you don't like is the only possible option. Keep your mind open, and avoid being defensive.
Step 6. Thank whoever answered you
If one of the users has solved your problem, thank him, letting him know that the problem has been solved. This way, other users with the same problem will see how you solved the problem and act accordingly. In addition, your gratitude will give the user who answered you motivation to continue answering the questions of other users.
Step 7. Don't give up
If you are not receiving answers, or if you are not satisfied with the answers you have received, take your time to review your question. Was it specific enough? Did you ask too many questions? Was the answer easily obtained through a short web search? Is this a question that can be satisfactorily answered? Work on your question and try again, in another place or always in the same place.
