I often ask questions so I can solve a rather immediate problem.
I often ask questions so I can learn something new.
I often answer questions and try to allow for those differences from the askers to guide my answers.
Many of us are natural "problem solvers" so we engage with the idea of solving a problem. And, some of us are good teachers as well and engage with the idea of teaching or guiding.
Sometimes the two go together.
It's problematic when a question with an education objective is answered as if "there must be a problem here".
This can lead to unfortunate assumptions regarding what the asker "needs" in a response.
Being Experts Exchange, I figure this is an exchange between experts - as well as a helping site.
For my part:
I'll try harder to keep my questions and answers to the point.
I really can't agree with a rule that the questions be all on "one line".
I'll try to keep my questions shorter while wondering why folks seem to be too impatient to read pertinent information.
I'm sure there's guidance that I've not found.
I wonder, if it doesn't, if part of the guidance shouldn't include: "please respectfully pay attention to what's being asked"?
Expert Comment
There is no agreement. There never will be.
For example, I disagree with Jim's disagreement.
Overall:
If you want to attempt to educate at the same time you are answering the question, go right ahead.
If you don't, that is also perfectly acceptable.
Forget agreement between Experts:
There are times I'll attempt to educate the OP even if they don't ask for it. There are times I won't even if they do.
Way too many variables and moving parts.