Telling people to search for the answer

[Shawn Gossman]

I'm sure you've seen this...

A member asks a question, and they get the classic reply "go search for it."

How do you feel about that sort of response? Will you give that response? Do you think that response is justifiable? If no, why? If yes, why?

 

[Cpvr]

I don’t tell members to search for it, I’d rather do my best to help them.

The response is rude and isn’t user friendly.

 

[Tracy]

If it is a question that I have seen asked over and over and over and answered over and over and over, then yes, I have no problems with telling someone to perform a search for it. I will also mention that it has been asked and answered numerous times.
Is that talking down? Some may think so, but there reaches a point where people need to get to be somewhat self-sufficient and at least make an attempt at finding the answer before just asking.
Of course, that may also be a difference in attitude... as I have always preferred to try to figure stuff out myself first before asking for assistance.