How to ask for help
Having problems is normal. If you do not learn how to solve your own problems, life will be difficult for you.
Why can't you write this program?[edit]
With gratitude to and permission from Stephen Hughes (Coe College) and Philip East (University of Northern Iowa)[1]
| Type of problem | What you need to do to solve it |
|---|---|
| I don't understand the problem | Requirements Gathering |
| I can’t describe how to get a solution | Algorithmic thinking; problem decomposition |
| I don’t know all the details | Real world problems require research |
| I can solve it by hand, but I don’t know how to code it. | New Language Features |
| I can do it | Explore efficiency or professionalism. |
Checklist for solving problems when coding in PHP[edit]
How to view our linux error log[edit]
I encourage students to open a new tab in their terminal window. The command below will create a running list of errors. To escape from the output, push the key combination control-C.
tail -f /var/log/php/error.log
Problem Solving Steps[edit]
- Repeat the problem, make the error happen again
- TRACE the problem (click here to learn more) - Insert a notification or breakpoint into your program
- Google the problem in general terms. For example:
python how to import a calendar - Re-read your code (sometimes, reading backwards helps you see little errors)
- Use your debugging tools
- Ask a friend
- Google the specific error message your program is raising
- Don't ask your teacher until you have a very specific question.
Click the image to learn about common mistakes[edit]
Other problem-solving strategies[edit]
- walk away for a few minutes
- take a short break (2 to 3 minutes)
- physically stretch your body