help!

Allow me to paint for you a scenario:

Imagine you are a math helper at a math forum. Your time is also limited (as is everyone's), and you see two new topics posted in the differential equations forum. They are titled:


  • Solving a Cauchy-Euler equation
  • Help!

Now, I can't speak for everyone, but I'm going to give my time first to the topic with the descriptive title. I know how to solve Cauchy-Euler differential equations, so I know I can probably offer some advice.

That's all I'm trying to say, to offer you advice about how to best attract the attention of potential helpers. Even more of a turn-off to me, and so probably to others as well, are titles like:


  • Please Help!!!!!!!!!!! I need this in a hurry!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Right off the bat, I see a person who procrastinated and expects their poor habits to suddenly become our crisis. My inner voice says "Pffft."

Anyway, you know how we "old folks" are...we love to give advice! :D ;)

By the way, I wouldn't have said a word if I didn't care and/or think you could possibly benefit in some small way from my experience. I could go on and on about the things people do that decrease their chances of getting prompt help on the forums...but I won't. :p

Best Regards,

Mark.
Ok. :)
 
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