When asked about a topic he is not very knowledgeable about, what should a chemical engineer do?

• A. Pretend to know about it
• B. Ask for some time and study the matter extensively
• C. Suggest that his client engage the services of experts on that field
• D. None of the above

Answer: (C)

When a topic falls outside what you know, the responsible approach is to ensure the client gets accurate guidance by involving someone with that specialized expertise. Suggesting that the client engage the services of experts in that field shows honesty about limits, protects safety and compliance, and keeps the project on solid footing. It also demonstrates good management of resources by bringing in the right knowledge rather than risking misinformation.

Pretending to know about it is misleading and risky; taking extra time to study extensively might help personally, but it delays guidance and may still fall short of the needed depth. None of the above isn’t correct here because there is a clear, appropriate action available in referring to specialists.