<p>Roughly, there are many ways to "answer" a statistical question: with actual mathematics, with "proofs by pictures" or "proofs by simulation", and with casual explanation. </p>

<p>Is it ever the case that <em>none</em> of those approaches can answer the OP's question satisfactorily? If so, how do you remedy the problem? </p>

<p>Should a third party encourage the asker to select a particular answer as correct if it is a thorough and precise answer to the original question, should the asker be encouraged to retract their question, should the question be closed as "too broad" since the asker has too many missing details? Do you point the asker to the right background material and hope they select your answer (or any answer) two or three years into the future?</p>
