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.

The best way to get help is to help yourself

Step 0: Understand what kind of problem you have

Type of problem	What you need to do to solve it
Requirements Gathering
Algorithmic thinking; problem decomposition

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

Separate into simpler constituents.

Give a sequence of brief answers with no explanation.

Apply knowledge or rules to put theory into practice.