Don’t expect context replies when you ask control questions

What are control questions

When is this going to be done?

What is an estimation for this work?

What were you doing that this is not done?

What are context questions

What is required for this feature to be completed?

What are the main challenges of getting this done by X?

What are your biggest time sinks right now?

Control questions are often contrasted with open-ended or exploratory questions, which are designed to encourage discussion and dialogue, rather than seeking a specific answer.

When asking control questions you should not expect context replies. In other words, the person you are asking may not provide additional information or context beyond the answer to the question itself. This is because control questions are focused on obtaining a specific piece of information and can be perceived as , rather than encouraging a broader conversation or exploration of the topic/issue.

Therefore, if you are asking control questions and you are not getting context replies, it is important to consider whether this is the type of response you were expecting, or whether you might need to rephrase your question to encourage a more in-depth or contextual response.