Librarians have learned from long experience that the question patrons ask is rarely their real question. Sometimes it is overly broad. Sometimes it is overly complex. When people ask their question at a reference desk or over the phone, the librarian will be able to engage in a conversation to clarify what the patron really wants. But nowadays, many people pose their questions by email, instant messaging, or chat. So it helps to know what the librarian needs to know in order to help you. Whether you are doing some kind of research or just want a quick fact, if you can ask better questions, you can get the most helpful answer with the least amount of time and frustration.