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?

When you first realize you have a problem, follow these steps:

With gratitude to and permission from Stephen Hughes (Coe College) and Philip East (University of Northern Iowa)

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

Do you understand EVERY. SINGLE. WORD. in the problem?

Algorithmic thinking; problem decomposition

• Create a diagram of the problem
• Draw a picture of the problem
• Explain the problem to a rubber duck (really)
• Forget about a computer; how would you solve this with a pencil and paper?
• Think out loud
• Explain the problem to a friend

Checklist for solving problems when coding in PHP

Click here for our checklist

How to view our linux error log

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

1. Repeat the problem, make the error happen again
2. TRACE the problem (click here to learn more) - Insert a notification or breakpoint into your program
3. Google the problem in general terms. For example: python how to import a calendar
4. Re-read your code (sometimes, reading backwards helps you see little errors)
5. Use your debugging tools
6. Ask a friend
7. Google the specific error message your program is raising
8. Don't ask your teacher until you have a very specific question.

Click the image to learn about common mistakes

You must learn to solve problems.

Other problem-solving strategies

1. Walk away for a few minutes
2. Take a short break (2 to 3 minutes)
3. Physically stretch your body
4. Explain the problem to a little rubber duck (really)

Give a detailed account or picture of a situation, event, pattern or process.

Undertake a systematic process of discovery

Separate into simpler constituents.

Represent by means of a labelled, accurate diagram or graph, using a pencil. A ruler (straight edge) should be used for straight lines. Diagrams should be drawn to scale. Graphs should have points correctly plotted (if appropriate) and joined in a straight line or smooth curve.

Give a detailed account including reasons or causes.

Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.

Apply knowledge or rules to put theory into practice.