Understanding Why People Delete Answers to Your Questions

Understanding Why People Delete Answers to Your Questions

Introduction to Quora and Its Algorithms

As a new user to Quora, you might find the site’s algorithms a bit confusing. Occasionally, answers to your questions may disappear from your view without you actively deleting them. This can be frustrating, but there are several reasons why this might happen.

The Case of Multiple Username Changes

Sometimes, users change their names frequently, which can lead to unexpected results. For example, one user, Jonas Marks, changed their username from Jonas Marks to Levi Smith, Henry S. Hart, Brodie Peddern, and finally Brian Corkery. This change in username can affect how the system handles and displays their activities.

Such frequent username changes can be seen as a sign of instability or a lack of commitment. If a user cannot decide on a stable identifier, it might indicate that they are not genuinely invested in the community. Consequently, people may be less inclined to engage with questions from such users.

Deletion Practices for Unintended or Misleading Answers

There are times when users delete their answers because they realize the questions might be insincere or part of the Quora Partners Program (QPP), which incentivizes users to generate content to earn money. Often, these types of questions are repetitive and lack genuine intent.

For instance, if someone asks about good restaurants near a university, and you find that they have posted similar questions for many universities, it's likely not because they are seeking actual information but rather trying to collect upvotes and rewards. In such cases, it might be better to delete your answer to avoid wasting time and contribute to a better user experience.

Another reason to delete an answer is if you realize after submission that the answer was of poor quality or unintentionally inappropriate. This is especially true if the question was borderline sexual or flirtatious. It's crucial to ensure that the content you provide on platforms like Quora is respectful and relevant.

Quora Policies and Privacy Concerns

Quora has strict policies against releasing personal contact information, such as requesting an Instagram address. The platform prefers that users keep their personal details private to protect their own privacy and that of other users. If you see answers that violate these rules, you might want to report them.

When you submit answers, consider the sincerity and intention behind the questions. If the intent seems questionable, it's better to err on the side of caution and avoid contributing to the content.

Contributing Sincerely to the Community

When submitting answers, it's important to ensure that they are genuine and valuable. Always ask yourself: Is this someone truly in need of information, or are they just seeking attention or rewards?

By maintaining high standards for your contributions and understanding the dynamics of the community, you can help foster a positive and supportive environment on platforms like Quora.