There are always going to be those low quality questions that have a few gaps in the question and are quite often down-voted for this reason.

A few times I have tried to understand these poor (often down-voted) questions and thought I may know what they are trying to say, but potentially English as a 2nd or 3rd language has been a barrier to a good explanation of the question.

A few times now I have made a few assumptions and explained these assumptions in an attempt to give info in an answer I think might be helpful.

**So my question is:** Is it bad practice to make assumptions about missing information in order to give an answer I think could help the OP?

In a few cases now I've been down-voted for my answer and told that it's not what the OP is asking for.

**Update after being marked duplicate**

I have been told my question is a duplicate question for "excessive comments trying to get the OP to display more information" and another question about waiting for OP edits before posting an answer.

**My question** is more about posting an answer with assumptions whether or not there are comments or other answers.

I'm happy to accept that "Making assumptions on poorly written questions is indeed bad practice" is the most likely answer to my question, but I'm keen to keep it open for others to comment on their thoughts.