We get periodic discussions about whether we are allowed to help with homework (we are)
Many of us do help when the student is making the effort.

This kind of student will ALWAYS get my help:
http://www.linuxquestions.org/questi...57#post2502457

I have seen many questions here that were admittedly or otherwise obviously homework, which were deserving of assistance. Like any question homework related or not, our desire to help is based on such things as:

* whether or not he is working on his own for answers
* whether he demonstrates a general understanding of the question
* his clarity and general sense of responsibility in phrasing the question, etc

that's just the reverse of the weird way things work in Australia- it's illegal to sell cigarettes to minors, but it's not a crime for a minor to smoke.

you're not supposed to post (well, discouraged from posting) homework questions (ie: what's the answer to 2+3?) But there is no rule against answering homework questions. (ie: 5!)

I agree though- when it's a good question, go a head and help.

Spoonfeeding/copypasting just isn't helpful- if people actually learn why the solution works, then they can tweak it for the unique situation they have. Copy and pasting someone else's grub file usually won't work, for example.

sorry- you can take my soapbox away from me now.

titanium_geek