You can make sure the candidate knows it's a basic question by simply saying so. If the point really is to make the person feel at ease, that reassurance will

You can make sure the candidate knows it's a basic question by simply saying so. If the point really is to make the person feel at ease, that reassurance will be even more helpful. Say: Don't overthink this one, I just want a solution. That should work wonders and will be more effective than ranting on your blog.