How do you answer a question you don't know the answer to ?

Answer 1

As we answer in examination!!!!!

Answer 2

I rarely bother with questions if I don't already know the answer. I have an endless store of semi-useless information in my head, and if I cannot find the answer there, I don't bother, as researching an answer is a waste of time for me.

The only exception is when people ask a very serious question, and they get no serious or solid answers. Since I believe that anyone who asks a serious question on Y!A deserves at least one good, solid, honest answer, I put them on my watch list, and I check them regularly. If they aren't getting a good answer, I will do the research just so they can get a decent one.

In real life, I rarely bump up against a question to which I don't already know the answer. A lot of that has to do with the fact that I am a voracious reader who reads more non-fiction than fiction, and I have a good memory for details and facts. The rest of it has to do with the fact that I actually listen when people share their knowledge with me. I ask questions about things I don't understand, and follow up with research if I think I need to. People sometimes play with me by asking questions about obscure topics--they research the answer first, and then ask me the question to see if I know the answer. They think it's a fun game, while I think it's tiresome. There are, occasionally, questions to which I don't know the answer, and I always tell people that I don't know, but that I will be happy to find out for them. I am skilled at both internet research, and even better, library reference research, which is quickly becoming a lost art. I do a little research, then call them, or email them with the answer. I used to get frustrated that people don't seem to know how to do research themselves, but I learned from working in a library for a long time that research is a mystery to many people, and one they will never unlock or master. Since I have the skills, I figure it's okay for me to do the research for them. The benefit is it creates good will. I rarely call in markers, but occasionally, I have needed something from someone--the fact that I have helped them out means they are glad to help me in return. There really is something to the old, "You scratch my back and I'll scratch yours."

Answer 3

simple...

don't answer a question if you don't know the answer!

why would you waste a time just to answer a question you don't know

unless you just want a 2 points here in Y!A or just guessing around or you want to lie! lol

Answer 4

If you don't know an answer, you should provide what information that you think may be useful to whoever is asking the question.

Answer 5

hey, nice to see you around, i miss you round here

knowledge has no boundaries, especially to us computer wizs, i mean information now is just a few clicks away. There are questions that requires concise thinking but for sure, we can get conclusion after that. the bible is also a good source of answer on life's questions. i mean we are not all knowing or omnificient but lets not understimate our generations' ability.

Answer 6

Not all questions have clear and certain answers. Or, right or wrong ones. So, I just share my views and experiences.

Answer 7

lots of times i just dont answer sometimes i say i dont understand because its more points for the questioner isn't it??? not sure there though & it would be good to know :)

Answer 8

I pick a lucky guess. I rather answer a question than to leave it blank.

Answer 9

I don't answer because I don't want to waste somebody's time with an answer like: I don't know.

-StarStruck@13

Answer 10

i wont answer a question that i dont know what is the answer..

Answer 11

I just don't answer to it then

Simple