Fix an error message
Explains what an error means, and the most likely fixes in order.
I’m getting this error: [paste the whole error message, with any passwords or private details removed]. It happens when I [what you were doing]. My setup: [the language, tool or app, with versions if you know them]. What I’ve already tried: [anything you’ve tried]. Explain what the error means in plain English, the three most likely causes in order of probability, and how to check each one. Give me the smallest fix first, as exact steps. If you need more information to be sure, tell me exactly what to look at or paste next, rather than guessing.
Tips for a better answer
- Paste the whole error, including the lines above it: the useful clue is often there.
An example, filled in
I’m getting this error: ModuleNotFoundError: No module named 'pandas'. It happens when I run my script from the terminal with python report.py. My setup: Python 3.12 on a Mac. What I’ve already tried: I installed pandas with pip install pandas, and it said it worked. Explain what the error means in plain English, the three most likely causes in order of probability, and how to check each one. Give me the smallest fix first, as exact steps. If you need more information to be sure, tell me exactly what to look at or paste next, rather than guessing.
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