Quora's Policy on Merging Questions Containing Multiple Subquestions

When navigating through the vast repository of knowledge on Quora, users often ask questions that can be subdivided into multiple smaller inquiries. This raises the question of whether and when these subquestions should be merged into a single post. Quora has specific guidelines to address this matter, aiming to maintain the integrity and utility of the content for its users. This article delves into Quora's policy on merging questions that contain multiple questions or subquestions, providing practical insights and tips for handling such scenarios.

Quora's Policy on Question Merging

According to Quora's guidelines, questions should be merged when all answers are expected to apply to both questions. This means that if the answers to the subquestions are interdependent and directly related, merging them can improve the quality and comprehensiveness of the responses. However, the policy also acknowledges that there are numerous scenarios where the answer to a subquestion might not be applicable to the parent question. In such cases, merging could lead to confusing or incomplete answers, which would not benefit the readers.

Handling Subquestions

When dealing with subquestions, content reviewers are instructed not to merge them when the answers would not apply to both. This approach ensures that users receive relevant and comprehensive answers. Moreover, this policy encourages users to submit separate questions for different subtopics, allowing for better organization and easier navigation. For example, if a user asks about the different parts of a compound light microscope and their functions, it is more appropriate to post these as separate questions rather than attempting to merge them into one.

Role of the Topic Bot

The Topic Bot, a crucial tool in the Quora moderation system, plays a significant role in suggesting relevant categories for questions. While the Topic Bot has made considerable advancements, there is still room for improvement, especially in detecting homework questions. Users often encounter questions that are clearly homework-related and may not contribute significantly to the broader knowledge base. In such cases, users and content reviewers can help the Topic Bot improve by adding or removing appropriate topics, such as marking a question as a homework question.

Grouping Questions Approach

A more flexible approach to handling these questions involves grouping them together under a broader topic. This method allows for the organization of similar or related questions without merging them into a single post. For instance, users can create subtopics such as 'Functional Anatomy of Microscopes' or 'Microscopes 101'. This approach not only maintains the integrity of the individual questions but also provides users with a comprehensive resource for information on microscopes.

Practical Steps for Merging Questions

To merge a question with another, follow these steps:

Identify the question that you want to merge with the current one. Left-click on the three dots below the question. Select “Merge Questions.” A window will pop up. Choose the question you want to merge with from the list. Select the phrasing for the merged question that you find most appropriate. Click “Merge Questions” to complete the process. If necessary, you can change the phrasing of the merged question to make it more suitable.

For detailed instructions and examples, refer to relevant Quora answers and FAQs. By following these steps and guidelines, users can ensure that the content on Quora remains clear, organized, and valuable for all its users.

Conclusion

Managing questions on Quora, especially those that contain multiple subquestions, requires a thoughtful approach. By understanding and adhering to Quora's policy on question merging, users can contribute to the quality of the content and help the Topic Bot and other tools function more effectively. Whether through merging or grouping questions, the goal is to ensure that all users receive the most accurate and useful information possible. With these guidelines and practical tips, users can navigate the Quora platform more effectively, creating a richer and more engaging experience for everyone involved.