The best type of question to ask anyone or in any situation is always contextual; it depends on the phase of coaching, and the purpose, or intended results, of the question.
We may call the most relevant questions for a particular person or a situation - facilitative questions, and they may combine opened and closed questions.
As a guide, coach, or a helper, you may ask yourself: "What do I want my question to accomplish?"
In general, questions are usually the most influential and most creative aspect of speaking, thinking and listening.
Questions stimulate new possibilities and new openings for action.
Effective questions lead to effective action, because questions program the form and direction of answers.
Quality of an answer depend largely on the quality of the question, because it is not possible to get best answers without the best questions.
Breakthrough changes in thinking depend on new provocative questions. Only new questions can bring about new answers.
The guide's most challenging task is to inspire people to see new possibilities and take a new action.
(Based on the Inquiry Institute teachings)
