---
title: Direct Query
slug: direct-query
url: https://templeton.host/lexicon/direct-query/
type: defined-term
inDefinedTermSet: https://templeton.host/lexicon
author: Andrew Templeton
---

# Direct Query

## Definition

A question posed to the operator, used only when the expected value of the answer exceeds the cost of the operator's attention. An agent that asks too many questions isn't diligent - it's poorly calibrated.

## Why this term exists

Some ambiguities can't be resolved through observation alone. Direct queries are the escape hatch, but they have a cost (operator attention) that has to be weighed against the expected improvement in decision quality.

## See also

- [The Deity Problem](https://templeton.host/frameworks/deity-problem)
- [Structured Elicitation](https://templeton.host/lexicon/structured-elicitation)
- [Revealed Preference](https://templeton.host/lexicon/revealed-preference)

Canonical URL: https://templeton.host/lexicon/direct-query/