What do you like about answering questions?

Answer 1

I see questions, especially good questions like this one, initially as an empty white canvas in an art studio.

All answers to me are like brush strokes and each answerer is a different contributing artist. Some are clearly Masters. Others are just beginning. Most of us are somewhere in between. Also, each artist has his or her own unique style created by prior experience and inspiration. But what really matters is that the "artist" was able to contribute.

Also, it's not really the answer that matters to me (unless it's a highly technical question where there's one real answer such as troubleshooting in IT). The fact that the artists' brush was allowed to hit the canvas and transfer a piece of what the artist was thinking is very important to me. That combined with the Asker being able to appreciate those thoughts completes the Circle of Questions and Answers because, very often, Answers lead to more Questions.

Answer 2

Its like a gym (work out) for the brain! You have to THINK of something to say... something original, humorous, or profound. You have to opportunity to express a personal opinion and / or impart knowledge / something you have learnt thought your own life experiences / mistakes!

I am surprised by how many people have said for the points! Personally I don't see the point of the points? What are they for anyway? Its not like you GET anything once you have accumulated a certain number or amount. Yes you go up to a higher level, but from what I could see, level five has no more "advantage" than level three anyway...

Answer 3

I suppose its a form of debate which is one of the things people of all races love to do ( gossip if you like). It also helps me to understand what other people are thinking and I often answer A question with a Question ( I don't see any harm in that but it seems to bother some people and I don't understand why.)

Answer 4

For me it's a distraction from every day stuff I need to be doing. After I answer a few questions, I feel better and get back to work, and if I help only one person in a day, it is worth the time spent.

Answer 5

I like answering questions because I can share my opinions, my knowledge, and my thoughts. Aside from that, I know I'm able to help other people make a decision. I'm also a critical thinker so it's a bit fun and challenging when being asked questions that need pondering and analysis. =)

Answer 6

I like a lot of things about it.

I get to answer questions uninterrupted. (a rarity in the real world)

I get to type it out and make sure it is right before it gets away from me. (not so easy with the spoken word)

I get to choose where I want to contribute.

People seem to take me more seriously as a total stranger.

It flexes my problem-solving skills.

I get to get into the heads of other answerers and see where I stand on issues in relation to the rest of the Answers community.

While my opinions are not always respected, I don't have to be insulted over them.

It lets me connect with people in areas where they actually want information without feeling I'm butting into their business.

Answer 7

I find it interesting the wide variety of questions here.
It amazes me when I know enough to feel I can answer.
Keeps the brain going.
It is a huge learning experience.
Interesting looking at the answers that I had no clue about.
I feel it is important to be in touch with other people, know their points of view.

Answer 8

Helping people and providing insightful answers. I really don't care about the points and I am yet to ask a question.

Answer 9

A good question will make me think more deeply on a subject. The asker actually helps me more than I help when I answer.

Answer 10

Boredom