How to Write a Great Answer on the FixYa Site.

I recently answered this question on the Site, and thought that I would take a moment to share it with everybody, as a TIp, with the hope that some new experts might take notice.

My intention here is to show the question, and dissect my answer, step by step.

New experts, using a method such as this could benefit greatly...This method could generate you a signifiecnt amount of 4 Thumb ratings.

(Please note that my answers are by no means "the only way"; this is simply a demonstration module)

Here is the link to the original question:

http://www.fixya.com/cars/t6586791-break_light_coming_dash_goes_off


By valeriecares on Oct 27, 2010

Break light coming on dash. Goes off and on. Is it safe to drive? What do I check for under the hood? and where?

My answer is in the BOLD TEXT, commentary continues in "(...parenthesis)"

Hello. Welcome to FixYa. Please allow us to assist you.

(...Note the greeting. Saying "Hello", and "Welcome" makes the askers feel that we are talking to them; the references to "Us", and "We" emphasize that the Site is more than one person. It also emphasizes the fact that others experts are available in this area, as well as other areas. This creates the possibility of a returning customer)

(...The "Please allow us to assist you" reinforces the fact that we are going to resolve the issue)

We are sorry that you are having issues with your Toyota.

(...An apology, a 'without taking blame' statement displays concern on our part)

What you are describing, the brake light illuminating on and off may be due to a low brake fluid condition in the brake master cylinder reservoir.

(...Here is where we voice our best opinion; in this case, this is more than likely the asker?s reason for asking for help).

(...Now, we follow up our opinion, with some factual statements)

There is a sensor in the master cylinder that monitors the quantity of the brake fluid present. As the brakes wear, the fluid level drops proportionately.

(...As shown below, we can give the asker the ability to observe the condition first hand.

NOTE: This creates a feeling of relief to the asker when they see that what we are talking about, is in fact the cause of their issue)

What you can do:
Open the hood, and closely examine the fluid level in the plastic reservoir on the brake master cylinder. It is located at the engine side of the firewall, pretty much in line with your turn signal switch. Look at the side of the cylinder reservoir. There will be a "MAX" line, and a "MIN" line. The "Max" is the proper fill level.

(...Being as clear and concise as possible, we try to 'walk' the asker where we want them to go, to see what we want them to see)

If the fluid level is close to the "Min" line, you probably need some front brake pads replaced. This indicates a low fluid condition in the reservoir.

(...Adding some precautions, to protect the property of the Askers is a good thing. Always think as to what the asker could do wrong, some people do not have your talents, skills and abilities, and could damage their item or property if left to their own thinking)

We would not suggest 'topping off' the fluid, just to extinguish the light. When you do get your brake pads replaced, the extra fluid will be forced out of the top of the reservoir, and the brake fluid will get on the paint under your hood. Brake fluid will damage your paint.

(...Adding your best suggestion, as shown below, allows the Asker to make their own choice on how they will proceed with your assistance..this also gives empowerment to the asker.)

Suggestion: Get the front brake pads checked; replace them if they are worn.

(...A polite closing, as shown below, with a request for answering other questions, will create a feeling of you are still there for the asker, if they need you for further information.)

Thanks for choosing FixYa today. If you have any other questions, please feel free to get back to me

..........Hopefully, this little tip will help some people out, to better their answers. Better answers will get you higher ratings...and the customers will return for more assistance.

It all starts with a great answer.....Yours.

Thanks for reading my Tip!

Regards,

Toyota Ed