I think there are ways to ask questions that don't make it seem like you don't know what you're doing. And also, you can sometimes say, this format/style/content is new to me, do you have an example? For example, my big client just asked me to write a rough draft of a medical study review for a journal. We went over all the points she wants me to sort out in the rough draft. And I said point blank, I feel confident I can do this, but I have never actually written this before, so do you have a sample that I can use as a guide? And she was like absolutely. She believes in my work abilities and talent, and appreciates that I want to give her what she wants.

The other thing you can do is research the question you have, then clarify with your boss. Approach them and say "so, I think this is a good way to handle this task, is there anything I'm missing or that you would like me to include?" Often it's not about showing you don't know the answer, but making sure you understand everything they want delivered.

It's okay to not know things and ask for help. In any job or situation. They would much rather you get clarification then waste time trying to figure it out. Asking for help and clarification is proactive.

Seesaw