Should you read an entire thread before responding?

[Arlen]

As has been said various times in this thread, it's respectful and sensible to read the whole thing.
Lord knows I've revived old posts because I didn't notice the date on them .
It's just good manners and I like to think that we here on Xmarks are pretty good at being mannerly!

[Navyguy]

I usualy only reply if I have something new to say after reading most of the post. That is probably why I am not a top poster. I read a lot of post and reply little. Just like real life, I am a man of few words.

[12stones]

God, yes! Read through the whole thing and then try, please try, not to repeat the same thing that's been said 15 times already. There are a few threads today that I read that almost made me cry as like 6 responses in a row said the same thing and the first response would have sufficed.

[mudd]

You should always read the entire post before you post, otherwise you may post something that someone else has already posted. (Did someone already post that?)

[Frank McGrath]

Why on earth would anyone read something all the way through before responding? That is not the way humans react in this day in age. but then, I have an excuse. I'm unmedicated ADHD.

[kiltedinUSMC]

I always read the thread before I post. Unless I been away for a couple days, threads grow like weeds in the short time. Then I post if I think my two cents is needed. I dont respond if the same thing has been posted.

[Bob C]

I voted "no," though I almost always DO.

If someone asks for opinions, I'll give mine without reading the dozens that precede it.

Let's face it - by skipping posts, we're not missing great literature in most cases.

[Kilted in Maine]

I actually read the entire thread before even answering the poll question (I was afraid it may be a test).

Reading an entire thread will avoid many redundant postings. In addition the treads often go off topic or become mute with the passing of time. I have seen many treads resurrected to provide comments on topics that no longer have a bearing.

[Glen C]

Before I start reading a post I always check the start date and then proceed through the entire thread. I will admit that I do go through it rather quickly, and have to sometimes go back to pick up things I have missed. When I do screw up its generally when I think I'm at the end of a thread and there are more pages that I didn't see. What I really hate doing is posting in the middle of someone posting pictures.

[sydnie7]

RBP (read before posting) is an extension of the "search before posting" convention. Shows consideration for your fellow forum members.