Why is my question deleted when I look at a possible answer, it's no help and I'm sent back to the start - and have to retype it all over again?

That behavior is indeed strange, opera. 

I replicated and was able to search for an answer with no need to retype every time I go back to the question. 

Sometimes your browser becomes full of site data causing problems in QuickBooks Online. To check if this is a browser-related issue, you can open your QuickBooks using an incognito or private window. This can help us rule out any cache-related issue that might've caused the problems. Use these shortcut keys to open it: 

• Google Chrome: Press CTRL + Shift + N.
• Safari: Press Command + Shift + N.
• Mozilla Firefox: Press CTRL + Shift + P.

If it's now working well, you'll have to go back to your regular browser and clear its cache. This will delete the accumulated junk files and enhance your browsing experience.  

When you're done clearing the cache, close any browser instances to complete the process.  

Also, make sure you're using a supported and updated browser for QuickBooks Online.   

In case you need an article on handling your account, feel free to utilize our Community Help articles. Just select a topic that you need help with.  

I'll be around if you have more questions for us. We'll make sure that everything is taken care of.