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.
Step One: 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. |
Requirements Gathering[edit]
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
- Explain the problem to a little rubber duck (really)