Buddha divide questions into four classes

Extracted from 'No-self or Not-self' article by Thanissaro Bhikkhu.

The Buddha divided all questions into four classes. They are:

1. those that deserve a categorical (straight yes or no) answer

2. those that deserve an analytical answer, defining and qualifying the terms of the question

3. those that deserve a counter-question, putting the ball back in the questioner's court

4. those that deserve to be put aside. This class of question consists of those that don't lead to the end of suffering and stress.

Buddha said that there are two types of people who misrepresented him. (i) those who draw inferences from statements that shouldnt have inferences drawn from them and (ii) those who dont draw inferences from those that should.