To be clear, developing familiarity involves asking questions, and insightful inquiries can result in significant new learnings. But not every question is worth the time it takes to research and respond to it. It’s simple to ask a dozen questions just because you can and you’re naturally curious, but by pursuing follow-ups, you can unintentionally be adding hours of labor. Instead, try to raise questions that will likely result in a decision being changed.

What is my estimate for the most optimistic answer, and what will I do if that turns out to be the real answer? is an excellent litmus test for whether a data query is worthwhile asking. What, on the other hand, is my estimate for the most pessimistic response, and what will I do if it turns out to be accurate? Your inquiry is probably not worth answering if your responses to the two questions are the same.

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