When researching an error message online, what information is most important to provide?

Providing the exact text of the error message is the most important information when researching an error online. The specific wording of the error message can offer critical insights into the nature of the problem. Many error messages are unique and can be tied to particular issues, solutions, or troubleshooting steps. By using the exact text, individuals searching online can find more relevant resources, discussions, or solutions that directly address that specific error.

While other pieces of information like the date and time, operating system version, and computer specifications can be helpful in context, the error message itself is central to pinpointing the issue. It helps to streamline the search process and leads to more accurate troubleshooting results.