Final answer:
The best option for seeking assistance with an application problem without a support contract is to check the manufacturer's website and look for resources. Online forums and tech-savvy friends can also be helpful. Calling the software company's helpline is less likely to be useful without a support contract.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you do not have a support contract and you encounter a problem with an application, the likely best option for obtaining advice would be to check the manufacturer's website.
This website typically offers a wealth of resources, such as FAQs, user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and community forums. Another helpful step can be to search for online forums where users discuss similar issues. These online communities can be a treasure trove of information where you can find threads discussing your specific problem or ask a new question.
These forums often have experienced users and sometimes even experts who offer their assistance voluntarily. You might also want to consider contacting a tech-savvy friend who can provide some insights or solutions based on their experience.
However, calling the software company's helpline without a support contract might not yield results, as they may prioritize customers with an active support plan.