Do you have a reference for that?


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When was the last time someone asked you that question? I guess it's the researchers' equivalent to the otherwise common questions of "how do you know?” or “who told you that?” So what did you answer? My usual choices for a response are "yes," "no'" and "do I need one?" Context is important. Unless you are with your peers, you can probably be confident that if you say it seriously enough, then they will probably believe you - and not ask about your supporting information. The most important question to answer satisfactorily is "do I need one?" and to answer it in anticipation of being asked. I have a friend who said that during a workshop at meetings and other professional venues, it is best only to ask a question if you are pretty sure that the answer won't surprise you.