Should you read an entire thread before responding?

[northernsky]

Hmmm... I am at a party and join a conversation that is already in progress...and I have to ask everyone what they already said, so I don't repeat?

Some of the threads are very long. Like others I usually read the first and last page, but unfortunately don't have the luxury to read all the postings everyday. I add when I have something to say, and if I have repeated, then skip mine and move on.

[Galb]

I was gonna write yes, but a few members made a good point about having previous posts "taint" one's opinions. That being said, if some of us read every post, we might also not be inclined to voice our opinions, and then there would be far fewer posts, fewer active members, etc. In all honesty, sometimes yes, sometimes no.

Plus, I don't mind giving someone the opportunity to make a pun out of or a humorous comment about my post. ;)

[Panache]

...I think people should feel free to make the choice that fits them best.

One of my intentions in creating this poll and thread was to get people to think about the other members of the forum. Is a "Welcome to XMTS" that is posted without bothering to read the intitial introduction sincere? Is the tenth repetition of an answer helpful? Is throwing in one's two cents on an issue that was decided long ago worthwhile? Doing what pleases you is all fine and dandy, but real communities work together.

I feel fortunate to be part of X Marks the Scot. For such a large group the level of positive, helpful , and fun civility here (especially considering the nastiness that the anonimity the internet can afford) is truly remarkable. There have been some useful reading strategies offered and I am thankful for the participation of all the good X Markers here! It's neat we all work together to make this a better place.

Cheers

Jamie

[Beertigger]

I voted one way, but didn't practice what I preach ; )

[BEEDEE]

Finally made it through to the seventh page!

Brian

[Jerry]

Jamie, I, at least now, try to read an entire thread before I post. I do this for two reasons. First, someone may have said the same thing I want to say, so I don't need to repost it. Second, I am now in my mid 60s and starting to suffer from the effects of CRCS (Can't Remember Crap Syndrome). Thus, I have found myself replying to threads to which I have already replied. This most often happens in resurrected old threads, so I try to check the date of the first post in a thread before replying, but sometimes I forget that also(see CRCS above). And, I did, at least scan every page in this thread looking for my name to see if I had already posted.

[Birddog]

I voted yes, but I shall not cast stones! I have on occasion been guilty of this, but I do try to read the whole thread first. I pledge from this thread on to do my best...

[Wompet]

Yes - try to read the entire thread first. It may take a few pages (seven at this point), but it's usually worth it.
And all the points I would mention have already been made so I'll go back to not posting now

[mbhandy]

I read all the Post and I still am confused

Not sure I even Voted

MrBill

PS Did I increase my Post??????

[Clockwork John]

I usually read the initial post, then decide whether or not I'm going to keep reading. If the post interests me, or I think I might have something to contribute, I keep reading. Otherwise, I quit reading and seldom look back. If I decide to keep reading I at least skim the entire thread to see if my opinion or advice has already been voiced, and to see if I'm even still interested in posting.

I think it's just a matter of common courtesy to read the whole thread, so you don't disrupt the flow of the discussion, or repeat what's been said a few, or a dozen, or a hundred times before, and make yourself look like a fool.