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However, in a "forum" setting, it is impractical to not make assumptions. If we start without assumptions, we're going to make a lot of people angry.
Q: I just purchased MA3, but it doesn't work.
A: Did you get any error messages when you installed it?
Q: No, that went fine.
.... several steps later, it turns out that he/she thinks "downloading" is the same as "installing".....
Q: I just purchased MA3, but it doesn't work.
A: Did you download it?
Q: Of course I did.
A: Did you install it?
Q: I'm not stupid!!!!!!
In a classroom, it's relatively easy to observe the "blank" looks, realize that some assumptions are wrong, go back and lay the groundwork, etc....
Here in a forum, we can't see expressions.
If it goes like this:
A: "Could you describe exactly what steps you are doing, to add your music to the MA3 playlist and then remove the Guitar track?"
Q: I folowed the steps laid out by MS Windows W7 book (what book?)
I open Music Playlist from the Marine Aquarium settings. (what steps came before that?)
[i.e., not describing exactly the steps to plug in the power cord, turn on the PC, .......]
... I can "assume" some things, and go in the direction that I think will be most productive --- or I can say "no, I'm not going to try to help until you answer my questions."
...and regardless of assumptions, it takes a lot longer in a forum than in the classroom.
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