Is Asking for One-Sentence Answers on Quora a Reflection of Low Attention Span?

Quora has always been a platform for questions and answers (QAs) that serve as a knowledge-sharing community. Recently, I came across another thread that brought up an interesting perspective. It made me question whether a request for one-sentence answers is an indicator of a low attention span or something else entirely.

Setting Expectations for Answers

The initial question posed the idea of whether a questioner has the right to set the criteria for the length of the answer. It's not uncommon for a question to specify a shorter or more concise response. When this happens, it often reflects the questioner's preference for brevity, possibly because they find it easier to consume or understand.

Expertise Determines Answer Length

One of the answers to this inquiry provided a compelling point. The answerer, being an expert on the topic, may feel that a concise answer is insufficient and that the full context and detail are necessary to adequately address the question. The expert might consider the length of their response appropriate because they believe it covers all necessary information. In this scenario, the answerer is the primary source of expertise and has the authority to set the minimum length of their response.

Broader Impact of Answers

Another important consideration is the broader impact of the answers. Quora is a forum where the original questioner is not the only beneficiary of the responses. Others who come across the same question in the future might need more detailed information to make informed decisions. Therefore, an answer that focuses solely on a one-sentence response might not suffice for future readers, who might find it too brief and lacking in depth.

The Role of Attention Span

It’s crucial to recognize that attention span is not the deciding factor here. The length of the answer is more a reflection of the questioner's needs and the expertise and knowledge of the answerer. A one-sentence answer may be valid when the question is straightforward and a single sentence can provide a clear and definitive answer. However, if the question requires more explanation or context, a longer answer is warranted. The expertise of the answerer plays a significant role in determining the length of the response.

Conclusion

Asking for one-sentence answers on Quora is not necessarily a sign of a low attention span. It is more a matter of convenience for the questioner or a reflection of the expertise of the answerer. The length of the answer should not be the sole factor in determining its quality or utility. It is important to consider the broader context and the needs of all potential readers of the answer. Experts should be allowed to provide detailed and comprehensive answers, while questioners should respect the expertise of those who answer.