<p>There have been instances where the OP posts a vague question that cannot be answered without further specifics. In most such cases, we have been using comments to seek clarifications and have been providing answers once the OP clarifies the question.</p>

<p>However, there have been a few cases where we have been providing answers despite a lack of clarification via various devices such as making assumptions, offering generic answers etc. (I have also been guilty of this sub-optimal practice.)</p>

<p>But, I am not sure if such a practice is optimal. If we do provide answers to vague and unclear questions then the OP has no incentive to improve the question which results in poor quality content on our site. Thus, I propose the following convention/policy for the consideration of the community:</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>To the extent possible, do not provide answers to questions that are vague or unclear. However, we will seek clarifications via comments to the question so that the OP can improve the question till such time that it is focussed enough to provide specific answers. If the OP does not respond to comments seeking clarification we will close the question.</p>
</blockquote>

<p>Obviously, we can tweak the above policy as desired. However, a fundamental question is: should we have something like the above as part of our policy? What do you think? </p>
