Asking for directions at a station

Two original fictional non-fiction texts for reading practice.

Text A: a station volunteer’s account

Passengers often begin by apologising for asking. They may have looked at a sign several times and assume the difficulty must be theirs. I tell them that asking early is more useful than finding the right platform after the train has left. A question is not proof that someone cannot travel independently.

The most helpful detail is not always the destination. A person may need a route without steps, a place to wait with a clear view of the display or reassurance that a connection is still possible. I try to ask what they need to do next rather than give the same quick instruction to everybody.

Some passengers want to be accompanied; others prefer one clear direction and space to follow it themselves. We should not turn an offer into an escort they did not request. At busy times, however, it can be hard to hear a question, and a line forms while one complicated journey is discussed. The station needs a separate point for longer enquiries, not an assumption that every passenger can ask in a single sentence.

Text B: a frequent traveller’s reflection

I ask for directions even at stations I have used before, particularly when a familiar passage has been closed. The answer I dislike is “you can't miss it”. I am standing in front of the person precisely because I already have. A useful answer tells me which turning comes first and what I should see there.

I do not always want someone to walk with me. Sometimes I am trying to learn the route so that the next journey is easier. Equally, there are days when being shown the first turning saves a great deal of uncertainty. Staff need to ask rather than decide from my appearance which kind of help I require.

I also understand that the desk has other passengers waiting. If my question takes longer, I am happy to move aside provided I know who will continue helping and where. Being sent away to an unnamed “information point” simply moves the difficulty. Passengers should be encouraged to ask, but the encouragement needs to be matched by answers specific enough to use.

Compare what the two writers say about passengers asking for directions at stations. Make it clear which text you are using.