Avoid asking questions to prove your point. Instead ask questions to gain an understanding of the other person's perspective and to create common understanding. Asking questions prevents us from jumping to conclusions by allowing us to clarify our understanding. We often jump to the wrong conclusions because we often do not ask questions to make sure we are understanding what is being said in the conversation. Without clarifying our understanding, we end up reinterpreting other people's reality and often shut down conversation.
Questions can help clear up any misunderstandings early in the conversation.
Allow the person an opportunity to think about the question. Give the other person a chance to consider the question and formulate an answer. Waiting patiently for the answer will give you more benefits than rushing the person into answering too quickly. The key to asking questions is to find the one that has meaning for the other person and will help you to understand the other person's perspective. If one question does not work, try phrasing it another way.