Can I Note Attempted Work in My Post Without Showing Steps in Homework Forum?

[Medgirl314]

Hi, and thank you in advance for an answer,

I posted in the homework forum yesterday, and someone eventually helped me find a solution. I did the work myself, but neglected to fill in my previous work in the template. When I go to post, it seems to say it is optional to use the template. I had attempted this problem before, but got frustrated and threw away the paper, so I didn't have work to show, but I had attempted the problem. I must have been reported because I got a PM saying I broke the rules. My question is this: is it okay to note in the post that you have attempted the problem, but don't have work to show? Or *must* you show the steps you tried, even if they are nonsensical?

 

[Evo]

The template is not an option. When you start a new homework thread, it says.

Use the template provided
• You must show your attempt at solving the problem
• Write the text of the problem here, not in an attachment or an image.

You should write as much as you can remember about what you attempted in solving the problem yourself. The reason for this is that without knowing what you have already tried and where you ran into trouble, the helpers have no idea where to start. Time is wasted by both the homework help seeker and the helpers when they have to start guessing "did you do this?", "can you explain "ABC", etc... The more information you provide in your first post the faster and more accurately you will be able to get help.

 

[Medgirl314]

Okay, thank you! I must have seen a template on a different forum that was optional and confused it with the homework template.

Have a nice day!

 

[arildno]

We are NEVER ridiculing "nonsensical" steps made by OP here at PF. If the original poster is unaware of the nonsensicality in his or her post, we indicate that something is wrong with the logic. If OP is frustrated, and feel suspicious of her logic without being able to specify the precise place of the flaw, we will typically commend OP, along with giving her a nudge in the right direction.

If, however, the OP deluges PF with nonsensical posts declaring proving Einstein wrong or other similar stupidities, vanities and inanities, the OP will be banned.

 

[Medgirl314]

Great, thank you! I know that some people who have an impressive knowledge of physics may have a difficult time understanding those who are still one their way, and would prefer my threads to be filled with helpful posts instead of ones by those who prefer to help with the math somewhat, but ridicule other's knowledge of algebra while doing so. If I make a thread, can I delete any posts I wish,e.g. unproductive ones, or does that power fall only to the mentors and advisors?

 

[arildno]

Within a time limit (24 hours, I believe), you can delete your own posts (but not MY posts; those are ALWAYS stellar, and are kept in a secret, high security PF archive! ).
Do remember, though, that it is "bad form" to delete a post someone has taken her time to give a comment on.

The Delete option becomes explicit on the Edit menu.

 

[mfb]

Only mentors can delete posts made by other users. If you think a reply is really wrong/misleading, please report it - there is a "report" button in each post.

 

[Medgirl314]

Thank you! Exactly my thoughts. The only reason I would wish to delete someone's post would be if they were unclear and snide, so I would hate for someone to come across the thread hoping to find an enlightening conversation about the problem, but instead find that it is unhelpful and snide. Thank you for your time and polite answers!

 

[arildno]

I think I misunderstood your post; read mfb's answer:
I thought you were asking about your OWN posts; those, you can remove, but never the posts made by others.
Sorry for that confusion..

 

[Medgirl314]

Yes, we posted at the same time, and I didn't see your second until after I posted again. In that case, I mean report. Thank you again!

 

[Borek]

Just remember: while there exists a courtesy window when you can edit your own posts, once they were answered don't do it. You can correct them if something is wrong, but always do it in such a way your corrections are [STRIKE]obvious[/STRIKE] easily visible.

 

[Medgirl314]

Good idea. Thanks!

 

[Evo]

Medgirl, so nice to see a positive attitude and desire to understand the rules!

 

[Medgirl314]

Evo, it is also nice to see someone so knowledgeable about the rules and physics who is not, to be frank, a know-it all! Thank you for the polite and helpful answers!