Like with any new experience, someone attempting to make the switch to Linux is going to clearly have some questions. What’s comical however, is without bothering to use Google, read any books or actually attempt dig through existing resources, many will end up in user forums with a single statement. “My Linux install is broken, can you help me.”
Wrong way to seek assistance
Imagine I walked up to a mechanic and explained that my car was broken. No indication as to what’s wrong, merely pointed out that it doesn’t work right. How do you think they’re going to respond? By asking more questions about WHAT about the car isn’t working. It’s not driving, parking, it’s on fire…what exactly is the problem?
The same thing happens in Linux forums. Without any indication as to the brand/model of computer being used, users come in expecting miracles. They install Linux onto computers branded with the Made for Windows sticker and believe that it’s all smooth sailing from there. Dude, news flash – read the sticker again!
First thing in your forum most needs to be exactly what you’re seeing. Error codes seen, flashes or events noticed, along with anything else related that appears to be affected.
Then comes the other details. Distribution name, release version and all of the known specs for your computer. The more info here, the better. At the very least, brand and model of the computer.
Taking this approach translates into people being able to assist you with much greater ease and less people jumping ship out of frustration. Do it right, chances are you can overcome most of your Linux hassles. The easiest way of course, to avoid most of them is to buy Linux pre-installed. To find out where, let Google be your guide.
