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What is a "Best Answer"?
In best answer format please describe what a best answer is and how to give one.
Bonus points for describing the difference between "A best answer" and "The best answer"
10 bucks to the answer that best answers these questions.
Edit~ This question will go to voting.
Bonus points for describing the difference between "A best answer" and "The best answer"
10 bucks to the answer that best answers these questions.
Edit~ This question will go to voting.
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bestanswer
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voted interesting: cheapgamer M$0.05, xds M$0.05, keepontryin M$0.05, chriswingate M$0.05, windowshopping M$0.05
answers (16)
"The best answer" to a question is the one which, of the answers provided, does the best job of satisfying the items requested by the questioner. "The best answer" may often not meet the criteria set forth by Mahalo for "a best answer" reward.
In order to be judged a "Best Answer", an answer should follow the guidelines given in the Mahalo page: How To Get A Best Answer On Mahalo.
You should choose a question you feel comfortable with and look up an answer. Be sure you understand and answer the question (no rabbit trails). The sources for your answer are important. The best sources are those that actually gather the information as well as summarize, interpret , or test it statistically. For example, the Census Department is a better source for population figures than a New York Times article quoting the Census Department, And Wikipedia, quoting the New York Times article that quoted the Census Department is the weakest of the three.
Organize your answer in a logical sequence and present your case, making every attempt to use proper spelling and grammar.
Use links to Mahalo pages and "outside" web pages that land on the page with the information whenever possible.
Use pictures and videos to introduce, illustrate and expand upon your answer. In addition to the linking capability, these are tools that other question and answer sites don't have, they are tools that can make Mahalo special, if we will take the time and care to use them.
Try to use a neutral and factual tone, even if it's a topic you are passionate about. If opposing views have some good points, it's a good idea to include them. Remember that people who disagree with you are not necessarily ignorant or evil.
Be aware of the not too long/not too short rule (the Goldilocks rule). In my VERY Best Answers, I like to include a picture, two or MAYBE three short paragraphs (I don't actually want the reader to have to scroll while reading the text), and a video, along with an external web page or reference link, and a Mahalo internal link if appropriate. If I can't find an "on topic" video, I may include a song or movie clip that goes along with the topic, or I may leave out the video.
Do Not Plagiarize. Learn the Mahalo rules of copy and paste, and use them. Don't get into arguments about what plagiarism and quotation rules are all over the rest of the world. When in Mahalo, do as the Mahaloans.
Be creative, have fun, and don't be afraid to learn something.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMOd1JJvwlM
source(s):
Various Mahalo pages, and my 60% best answer experience.
Various Mahalo pages, and my 60% best answer experience.
voted helpful: xds, kalane, unwirklich, michelleldevon, buddawiggi, shinju
A best answer is one that answers the question, and provides a little extra information. If the question is only answered in the literal sense, it can still leave the asker wondering. If you go a little above what is needed, you might answer the question a bit better than a straight answer would.
The difference between "a" best answer, and "the" best answer is in "the" best answer, care is taken. It is not something that you googled then copy/pasted in there. You read the sources, you understand the answer yourself, and you consider what it means in the context of the question. You then write the answer with these things in mind.
In the case of a question where it is merely opinion and source citation isn't needed, "the" best answer is topical, not overly explanatory, and non judgmental.
The difference between "a" best answer, and "the" best answer is in "the" best answer, care is taken. It is not something that you googled then copy/pasted in there. You read the sources, you understand the answer yourself, and you consider what it means in the context of the question. You then write the answer with these things in mind.
In the case of a question where it is merely opinion and source citation isn't needed, "the" best answer is topical, not overly explanatory, and non judgmental.
source(s):
No source, just me.
No source, just me.
I honestly don't ask a ton of questions, but when I do, I'm looking for:
1) Did they answer the question completely? Did they address all aspects of the question, and really understand what was asked before they came up with an answer?
2) Is the answer thoughtful? Do they offer something new to the conversation, such as a perspective I wouldn't have thought of on my own?
3) Is the answer well written? I understand that not everyone speaks English as their first language, but I hope people put the time into their answers to do at least a quick proof read to make sure it basically makes sense.
4) Do they clearly distinguish between fact and opinion? Many questions ask for both, but it should be clear what is researched fact and what is personal judgment.
I like to see links if they are referencing a website, but if it is their opinion, I am happy with just a thoughtful answer. I don't care about length, because I assume they will take as much or little space as necessary to provide the information they deem essential. I also don't care about photographs or diagrams unless they are necessary for explaining the text, or add something new that text simply cannot. Otherwise, they are just space-fillers that make the page take longer to load.
It is great when there are many good answers, but "the" best answer is the one that has thoroughly, honestly, clearly, and thoughtfully answered the question. "Best" answers also leave room for further dialogue.
1) Did they answer the question completely? Did they address all aspects of the question, and really understand what was asked before they came up with an answer?
2) Is the answer thoughtful? Do they offer something new to the conversation, such as a perspective I wouldn't have thought of on my own?
3) Is the answer well written? I understand that not everyone speaks English as their first language, but I hope people put the time into their answers to do at least a quick proof read to make sure it basically makes sense.
4) Do they clearly distinguish between fact and opinion? Many questions ask for both, but it should be clear what is researched fact and what is personal judgment.
I like to see links if they are referencing a website, but if it is their opinion, I am happy with just a thoughtful answer. I don't care about length, because I assume they will take as much or little space as necessary to provide the information they deem essential. I also don't care about photographs or diagrams unless they are necessary for explaining the text, or add something new that text simply cannot. Otherwise, they are just space-fillers that make the page take longer to load.
It is great when there are many good answers, but "the" best answer is the one that has thoroughly, honestly, clearly, and thoughtfully answered the question. "Best" answers also leave room for further dialogue.
source(s):
opinion
opinion
voted helpful: kalane, michelleldevon, buddawiggi, shinju
Voted as best: madness
The best answer serves and satisfies the needs of the person asking it.
source(s):
Me
Me
voted unhelpful: spoon, lilyloretta
In the simplest terms, a best answer is an answer provided, which answers the question better than any of the alternate answers. Such an answer might be superseded by a better answer, should the asker wait longer and another answerer come along.
"The" best answer is one which is clearly on the face of it superior in quality. Such an answer makes it clear to the asker that waiting any longer is not likely to yield a better answer. In such cases the only reason not to grant it immediate "best answer" status is that having the question itself remain open serves a purpose, such as making more people think about an important topic and ponder it. An example of that was http://www.mahalo.com/answers/mahalo-answers-community/if-a-question-you-post-gets-only-one-answer-and-although-that-answer-is-good-it-is-plagiarized-do-you-pick-it-as-best-answer where "the best answer" came along fairly quickly, yet the question was left open overnight to engender further thought among the answering public.
Next, the obvious extension of the question is - what makes the best answer clearly superior? This is a combination of several attributes.
1. The answer demonstrates a deep understanding of the question and the context in which it is asked.
2. The answer is put forth in a clear, crisp, and logical manner, with a natural flow of ideas.
3. The answer uses correct grammar and spelling, making it easier to understand.
4. The answer includes any appropriate supporting sources, be they authoritative studies, images, videos, etc.
5. The answer does not include sources that are of marginal use, as these dilute the answer's value.
6. The answer provides original concepts and thoughts, above and beyond any quotes from other sources. Such quoted sources are as brief as possible, and clearly identified. The quoted content is clearly denoted using quotation marks or "--- quote ---" and "--- end quote ---". The quotes are used to support the concepts and ideas of the answerer, who provides analysis and synthesis of the quoted segments.
In short, the best answer follows the above best practices, and provides a response worthy of being considered a brief authoritative essay on the topic raised in the question.
"The" best answer is one which is clearly on the face of it superior in quality. Such an answer makes it clear to the asker that waiting any longer is not likely to yield a better answer. In such cases the only reason not to grant it immediate "best answer" status is that having the question itself remain open serves a purpose, such as making more people think about an important topic and ponder it. An example of that was http://www.mahalo.com/answers/mahalo-answers-community/if-a-question-you-post-gets-only-one-answer-and-although-that-answer-is-good-it-is-plagiarized-do-you-pick-it-as-best-answer where "the best answer" came along fairly quickly, yet the question was left open overnight to engender further thought among the answering public.
Next, the obvious extension of the question is - what makes the best answer clearly superior? This is a combination of several attributes.
1. The answer demonstrates a deep understanding of the question and the context in which it is asked.
2. The answer is put forth in a clear, crisp, and logical manner, with a natural flow of ideas.
3. The answer uses correct grammar and spelling, making it easier to understand.
4. The answer includes any appropriate supporting sources, be they authoritative studies, images, videos, etc.
5. The answer does not include sources that are of marginal use, as these dilute the answer's value.
6. The answer provides original concepts and thoughts, above and beyond any quotes from other sources. Such quoted sources are as brief as possible, and clearly identified. The quoted content is clearly denoted using quotation marks or "--- quote ---" and "--- end quote ---". The quotes are used to support the concepts and ideas of the answerer, who provides analysis and synthesis of the quoted segments.
In short, the best answer follows the above best practices, and provides a response worthy of being considered a brief authoritative essay on the topic raised in the question.
voted helpful: michelleldevon, buddawiggi
I think this the simplest way to put it: Its the answer the answers the questions asked, in as much detail as is needed, clearly, and doesn't answer any other questions (unless specified), and doesnt create more questions
voted helpful: michelleldevon
My experience here is limited, but I'll whack my axe at it anyway.
The best answer to a question is as stated the one that is the most complete, logical, and clear that satisfies the question asked in the eyes of the asker. I add that in because sometimes the right answer for one, is the wrong one for another.
As suggested in the Mahalo page on How to Get Best Answer, a picture or video seems to help. Probably because we are such visual creatures. Sources also seem to add to the credibility of an answer. However from my best answers objectivity seems to be do the most for a good answer.
Present the facts, avoid putting too much opinion into the answer unless opinion is the question. While the "answer" should be clearly stated, the reasoning behind it should be presented so that the person who asked understands the answer and would have come to this conclusion had you not even included the answer.
A Best Answer I feel is one that can help any one who reads the question. The type of answer that makes you think, and truly adds something to your wealth of knowledge even if that addition is a trivial fact. It should just make you go, "Wow, that's just a good answer"
Often when met with "A Best Answer" I vote helpful and move on, because there just isn't anything else to say and that's how it should be.
That's my newbie whack.
The best answer to a question is as stated the one that is the most complete, logical, and clear that satisfies the question asked in the eyes of the asker. I add that in because sometimes the right answer for one, is the wrong one for another.
As suggested in the Mahalo page on How to Get Best Answer, a picture or video seems to help. Probably because we are such visual creatures. Sources also seem to add to the credibility of an answer. However from my best answers objectivity seems to be do the most for a good answer.
Present the facts, avoid putting too much opinion into the answer unless opinion is the question. While the "answer" should be clearly stated, the reasoning behind it should be presented so that the person who asked understands the answer and would have come to this conclusion had you not even included the answer.
A Best Answer I feel is one that can help any one who reads the question. The type of answer that makes you think, and truly adds something to your wealth of knowledge even if that addition is a trivial fact. It should just make you go, "Wow, that's just a good answer"
Often when met with "A Best Answer" I vote helpful and move on, because there just isn't anything else to say and that's how it should be.
That's my newbie whack.
the best answer... wow i dont think i can beat number 1 here. but i believe a best answer... answers the question to the best of ones ability.. The best answer is the one that answers the question perfectly. I dont necassarily think a long answer is a best answer... I think if a answer, answers the question on hand no matter what amount of sentances then they should receive the best answer.
Good Luck Budawigi on Mahalo, hope u make millions ! .
love your SN btw.
Mike !
Good Luck Budawigi on Mahalo, hope u make millions ! .
love your SN btw.
Mike !
If someone asks a question then we should give answers such that it is beneficial to the person who ask the question.if he or she asking for some suggestions then we should give some best and self experienced answers to it.it will be more helpful.we should understand person's condition and then go for answering his or her question.and if we have no idea but what he or she asking about then it is better to leave that question.
The best answer is exactly what the person asking wants to hear. If the question is asking your opinion then be thorough when explaining your reasoning. Using sources to back up your opinion or answer regarding facts will show you are right and prove you took the time to answer the question correctly and you are not just bsing to try and get points.The length of the answer can be an issue because people in general are lazy when it comes to reading, so a short and concise answer is usually the best way to answer a question.
Voted as best: keepontryin
The Best Answer is the answer which is brief & includes all information for that question.
A best answer is just the try to become the best answer,however it lacks in some info.
A best answer is just the try to become the best answer,however it lacks in some info.
A best answer is an answer that has all the information you are looking for.
When I say you, I am referring to the person that asked the question. It does not matter if other people do not agree.
When I say you, I am referring to the person that asked the question. It does not matter if other people do not agree.
A best answer is one that pretty much can sum the question up with details.
The best answer is one that can not only sum the question up with details but offers knowledge to back up the information. The best answer may also include where to find the information at about a certain topic. After reading "The best answer", there should be no more questions about the topic.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/42337640@N05/3906757817/
The best answer is one that can not only sum the question up with details but offers knowledge to back up the information. The best answer may also include where to find the information at about a certain topic. After reading "The best answer", there should be no more questions about the topic.
"The" Best Answer happens when:
1) Somebody asks a question,
2) More than one person thinks they have an answer, and they post it,
3.a) The asker reads the answers, and one in particular gives the asker a feeling that his question has been answered, or that one answer in particular has answered the question better than the rest, or
3.b) The asker cannot, or does not, evaluate the answers to his question, such that after a period of time, a panel of answer-readers will review all answers to a particular questions and determine "The" Best Answer to that question by vote.
4) Sometimes there is no "The" Best Answer to a question, either because nobody posted an answer, or because the asker or the panel didn't feel like it really answered the question (in which case, be not surprised if answerers ask for the question to be rephrased...).
When you have a set of answers that were all given "The" Best Answer rating, then any one of those is called "A" Best Answer.
By corollary, if an answerer's answer receives "The" Best Answer rating to a question, it is also "A" Best Answer... within the set of all "The" Best Answers ever given.
1) Somebody asks a question,
2) More than one person thinks they have an answer, and they post it,
3.a) The asker reads the answers, and one in particular gives the asker a feeling that his question has been answered, or that one answer in particular has answered the question better than the rest, or
3.b) The asker cannot, or does not, evaluate the answers to his question, such that after a period of time, a panel of answer-readers will review all answers to a particular questions and determine "The" Best Answer to that question by vote.
4) Sometimes there is no "The" Best Answer to a question, either because nobody posted an answer, or because the asker or the panel didn't feel like it really answered the question (in which case, be not surprised if answerers ask for the question to be rephrased...).
When you have a set of answers that were all given "The" Best Answer rating, then any one of those is called "A" Best Answer.
By corollary, if an answerer's answer receives "The" Best Answer rating to a question, it is also "A" Best Answer... within the set of all "The" Best Answers ever given.
A best answer has several elements:
Accuracy: It is important that the answer be accurate and provide the correct information. Posting resources can help improve accuracy.
Relevance: The answer should be relevant to the question. If a person asked about a Chevy's transmission, information on a Toyota transmission wouldn't do them much good.
Personal Experience: I feel that if the answerer has personal experience they should use it. I answered a question about having a BRCA mutation. I have this condition so I injected my personal experience into the answer to provide further information and perspective.
Creativity: Thinking outside the box can really lend to an answer. Some questions allow no room for creativity, but many do. If someone is asking for gift ideas for their teen girl, get creative. Instead of suggesting a bottle of perfume or an iPod, how about something like desktop carnivorous plant set, or homemade soap.
Focus: The answer should have focus and should focus on the question asked. There is room for creativity, but the answer should ultimately answer the question.
Purpose: The answer should have a purpose. If someone asked about how many legs an octopus has, just about anyone can give a number. However, providing neat facts along with the answer would add to the purpose.
Leads to Further Thought: When answering a question it is nice to go that extra mile and provoke thought and discussion. If some asks about your opinion on healthcare, fully discuss your opinion and provide the facts that back it up. This will help guide the answer into a discussion where everyone can learn and think more about the question and its subject.
The best answer will include all of these elements. It will be informative and comprehensive. It will provide additional information that is relevant and thought-provoking. It will be the absolute best answer.
Accuracy: It is important that the answer be accurate and provide the correct information. Posting resources can help improve accuracy.
Relevance: The answer should be relevant to the question. If a person asked about a Chevy's transmission, information on a Toyota transmission wouldn't do them much good.
Personal Experience: I feel that if the answerer has personal experience they should use it. I answered a question about having a BRCA mutation. I have this condition so I injected my personal experience into the answer to provide further information and perspective.
Creativity: Thinking outside the box can really lend to an answer. Some questions allow no room for creativity, but many do. If someone is asking for gift ideas for their teen girl, get creative. Instead of suggesting a bottle of perfume or an iPod, how about something like desktop carnivorous plant set, or homemade soap.
Focus: The answer should have focus and should focus on the question asked. There is room for creativity, but the answer should ultimately answer the question.
Purpose: The answer should have a purpose. If someone asked about how many legs an octopus has, just about anyone can give a number. However, providing neat facts along with the answer would add to the purpose.
Leads to Further Thought: When answering a question it is nice to go that extra mile and provoke thought and discussion. If some asks about your opinion on healthcare, fully discuss your opinion and provide the facts that back it up. This will help guide the answer into a discussion where everyone can learn and think more about the question and its subject.
The best answer will include all of these elements. It will be informative and comprehensive. It will provide additional information that is relevant and thought-provoking. It will be the absolute best answer.
source(s):
Personal Experience
Personal Experience
Voted as best: unwirklich, kty2777
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