The problem I have with the grizzledExpert-style responses is that their stance usually assumes a postion of hand-holding; that is, often it's assumed the BaffledNewb is misguided in their thought process (which they are in the examples given), but also that giving them an answer to a question they haven't thought to ask is the best course of action.

I think that if the BaffledNewb is allowed to encounter the consequences of obtaining literal answers to their questions, they'll have a better understanding of why their original question was misguided, and in the future (hopefully) learn to ask questions in a better manner as well as more fully understanding why the answer to their original question is not the best answer.