[yagr]

Hi folks,

So often I see, especially on this forum as opposed to another forum I frequent (though I see it there too), a person starting a post saying, "Sorry this is so long" even if it is barely more than a paragraph.

Why is this? My thinking is that if it takes you two pages to properly describe the situation you are asking for advice or help on, then by all means make sure you include all the pertinent information - even if it takes two pages. In fact, I could make a better argument for apologizing for brevity.

I'd love to understand this. Thank you in advance for anyone who could explain this too me.

[Travelinglady]

Hi, yagr! I've noticed that long posts often don't get read.

[eskielover]

I agree Yagr. If it there is a lot of information then it needs to be included. I hate trying to pull teeth in a thread trying to get useful information out of the OP in order to answer their question or give useful support.

If thoughts are well put together & don't notice length as much as if their thoughts are rambling all over the place not making sense.

[Skeezyks]

Perhaps it's simply a matter of people feeling unworthy... as if they don't deserve the attention... others have more serious problems... that sort of thing. Often too, I think, where you tend to see this is at the beginning of posts written by members who are still very new. So there is perhaps also an element of shyness about it as well. It is true, though, as Travelinglady mentions, that posts that really are long tend to attract fewer readers.

Originally Posted by Skeezyks

Perhaps it's simply a matter of people feeling unworthy... as if they don't deserve the attention... others have more serious problems... that sort of thing. Often too, I think, where you tend to see this is at the beginning of posts written by members who are still very new. So there is perhaps also an element of shyness about it as well. It is true, though, as Travelinglady mentions, that posts that really are long tend to attract fewer readers.

I agree. When offering up the caveat apology, I sense the poster questions the worthiness of both themselves and the matter at hand. Are they concerned about judgement they and their problem are not worth our time. I truly hope this is not the case for them.

Admittedly, I am guilty of passing by some of the ultra long posts. One of my side symptoms is reduced concentration and it is just plain difficult to stay focused.

On another note though, I find some posts far too too short. At least some context would be helpful.

Sometimes I can't read long posts when I'm too unwell but I agree, a post should be as long as needed to get the facts out there. I have seen some ladies on this board get pissy with members who make long posts and make a point of acting like the person was ridiculous for making such a post. Very invalidating but everyone is entitled to their annoyances. I always feel bad when I see a long post and have to click off but as I said, when I'm unwell, I can't keep track of the words or sentences especially if it's not broken into small paragraphs. The bigger the issues is, often the longer the post must be. I don't want to discourage people from making long posts.

[Artchic528]

I am honestly guilty of doing this. I think I say that before a lengthy post because I want to give heads up for those who might either not have the time, or the capacity (temporarily or not) to sit down and read more than a paragraph or two at that time. It's a common courtesy in my eyes.

[yagr]

Originally Posted by Artchic528

I am honestly guilty of doing this. I think I say that before a lengthy post because I want to give heads up for those who might either not have the time, or the capacity (temporarily or not) to sit down and read more than a paragraph or two at that time. It's a common courtesy in my eyes.

I hereby solemnly swear to always finish a post from you that I start, regardless of the length. I may not always have the time or strength to answer, but I darn well sure can read it. You are worth it.