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How To Ask For Help
The dos and don’ts of asking for help with data science, programming, or related topics online
Computer programmers, data scientists, and other tech professionals frequently need to ask for help. Asking for help is a sign of strength! Professionals at all levels of skill sometimes need help…
Here is a non-exhaustive list of tips for reference when asking for help online.
Do not assume those that will assist you are ‘guys.’
Do not start asking for help with the words “Hey guys ~” it will alienate a large collection of those that can help you.
Too many posts start out with “Hey guys.” This is sexist. Stop it.
Find out if someone has already asked and answered your question.
This is easy to do. If you’re asking for help online. Search the forum with keywords related to your question. Read those posts and their responses. If you’re in a private setting and you cannot post your question publically use your company forums (if available). Slack, after all, is full of helpful institutional knowledge that may answer your question: it is THE Searchable Log of All Content & Knowledge, after all.
Check the documentation.
Read the documentation before asking for help.
