<p>One of the things that I like to do, to help those helping me, is to show that I have done a credible effort.  I show where I have looked, and I update it as I progress.</p>
<p>The goal here is teaching and sometimes finding.  Communicating knowledge.  The form isn't always &quot;I know x&quot; but is often and commendably &quot;This person at <em>reference</em> did y&quot;.</p>
<p>In my personal opinion, this is more of a &quot;how do you go about asking the question&quot; and the &quot;may I ask this type of question&quot; is already answered in the affirmative.</p>
