the challenge with “making sense”

When we are grappling with a complex problem or figuring out something new, it is typical to ask a lot of questions to sort through our thoughts. “Do you know what I mean?” and “Does that make sense?” are both common tag questions, used to engage whoever happens to be listening.

There’s a subtle but essential difference between the two questions though. The first is really asking whether the other person follows your logic. The second inadvertently calls into question your logic. Unless you are legitimately wondering whether you make sense, why wouldn’t you lead with trusting your own logic. Do you know what I mean?