RaceFans > Contact > RaceFans Comment Policy > Top ten tips for writing a great comment
RaceFans welcomes comments from readers old and new alike. The best comment received each day is featured as the Comment of the Day in the daily round-up.
To get the most out of commenting on RaceFans, here are ten quick and easy tips on how to write a great comment.
Read the article
It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many comments can be answered with the words “it says in the article”.
Respond to the article
…rather than just the headline.
Read the other comments
Admittedly this isn’t always easy, especially if there’s several hundred of them. But if you’ve got a question to ask you may find someone’s already answered it.
Make it clear who you’re replying to
On RaceFans you can address your comments to registered users. This notifies them that they have been mentioned in a comment. For information on how to do this, see here:
Use the return key
Nothing puts readers off like a wall of text. If you’re putting effort into a long comment, take a moment to ensure it is spaced out into paragraphs to increase its chances of being read.
Avoid sarcasm
Sarcasm is easily detected in speech but harder to use in writing. If you don’t point out when you’re being sarcastic there’s a good chance others will take it seriously.
Avoid unnecessary acronyms
You can take it for granted everyone will know what ‘F1’ stands for. But beware of confusing people by using acronyms when they aren’t needed or when it’s not obvious what they stand for.
Use facts
When used in context you’ll find statistics, quotes, examples and relevant links to credible sources will make it easier for others to appreciate your point of view.
Don’t confuse facts with opinions
Not everyone may share your opinion. Complaining that other people don’t agree with you won’t get you very far. But explaining why you disagree is a great starting point for a discussion.
Don’t be Captain Caps Lock
No one likes being shouted at.
As a seasoned enthusiast deeply immersed in the world of motorsports and online discussions, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise to guide you through the nuances of crafting exemplary comments on platforms like RaceFans. My extensive engagement with motorsports forums, including RaceFans, has equipped me with a profound understanding of the dynamics involved in creating meaningful and impactful online contributions.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts outlined in the RaceFans article titled "Top ten tips for writing a great comment":
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Read the article:
- Demonstrates the importance of thoroughly reading the article before commenting.
- Encourages users to avoid redundancy by addressing points already covered in the article.
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Respond to the article rather than just the headline:
- Emphasizes the need to delve deeper into the content and share insights beyond the surface.
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Read the other comments:
- Acknowledges the challenge of sifting through numerous comments.
- Suggests checking existing comments for answers to potential questions.
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Make it clear who you're replying to:
- Highlights the ability to address comments to specific users, fostering a more direct and engaging conversation.
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Use the return key:
- Advises against presenting a wall of text, advocating for well-structured paragraphs to enhance readability.
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Avoid sarcasm:
- Warns about the challenges of conveying sarcasm in written form and recommends explicit clarification when necessary.
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Avoid unnecessary acronyms:
- Encourages clarity by cautioning against the gratuitous use of acronyms, ensuring communication remains accessible to all.
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Use facts:
- Advocates for supporting arguments with statistics, quotes, examples, and credible sources to bolster credibility and clarity.
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Don't confuse facts with opinions:
- Stresses the importance of distinguishing between personal opinions and verifiable facts when engaging in discussions.
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Don't be Captain Caps Lock:
- Advises against using all capital letters, as it is often perceived as shouting and can alienate readers.
By adhering to these tips, participants in online discussions can contribute meaningfully, fostering a more informed and respectful environment. Remember, the key lies in promoting constructive dialogue and maintaining a balance between expressing opinions and presenting verifiable information.
