Let’s get straight to the point.
There are two ways to ask for help.
2 ways.
1. The Zero-Effort Approach
This approach looks like this:
You encounter a problem.
You try something—or nothing at all.
You immediately ask someone more knowledgeable to solve it for you.
This is the wrong approach.
Yes, you might get help the first time. But you’ll also build a reputation for not trying, and for wasting other people’s time. And when you eventually face a situation where you truly need help, that person will probably say no.
2. The Some-Effort Approach
This is the right way to ask for help:
You encounter a problem.
You try a solution and take notes.
You try a second solution and take notes.
You search online—ChatGPT, Google, documentation, forums.
You test the solutions you find and keep notes.
If you still can’t solve the problem, then you reach out to someone more experienced.
But when you do…
You clearly explain the problem, what you’ve already tried, and the results of each attempt.
This approach shows that you didn’t rush for help, that you respect the other person’s time, and that you’re genuinely trying to learn. Because of that, they’ll be far more willing to help you—not just this time, but the next time you need it.
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