New Threads or Reviving Old Threads

[anewbiewannabe]

I didn't know how to search this question to see if it's already been answered.

So, the question is: Is it better to start a new thread that's closer to your topic or to revive a thread that's a couple years old that is similar to your topic? I have limited internet time to search out old information and it's about like google---you have to know what search terms will actually get you where you want to go.

Thanks!

 

[AuricTech]

A good compromise would be to start a new thread, but include links to other relevant threads, along with the last active date of that thread.

For instance, in this thread, you would have linked as follows:

Old thread on this topic: Picking Up Old Threads (last post: 30 January 2014)

What do the rest of y'all think?

ETA: The comment could also include the number of posts on the old thread, to warn those with slow Internet connections.

 

[cyndi]

Generally, I do a search; sometimes a couple of searches with different search terms. I read a little. If nothing jives with what I am needing I post my question. I also use google when searching. Google allows for less exact search terms.

I don't think there is a wrong or right answer. If you can't find what you need, then you ask.

 

[anewbiewannabe]

AuricTech, it's looking like similar threads to new or existing threads will be listed at the bottom of the page along with the number of responses and I think the last date. (I can't see that from the posting page to confirm.) So, looks like we can save that step at least.

I used to have to figure out how to ask the right question of my dad to get the answer I was looking for---he'd go off on a different tangent than where I was headed and I'd forget what my question was. I think it was about the same when helping my daughter with "new math" so far as figuring out the best way to get the information across where it was understood. This leads me to think that for a few of my questions it would definitely be better for me to start a new thread.

I just like to get an idea of the forum manners when I join one so I can do my best not to cross the wrong lines accidentally. Whether I end up doing it on purpose depends on the forum. Mostly I'm well-behaved and house-trained.

 

[akrvbob]

House-trained is good!
Bob

 

[highdesertranger]

actually I like a blast from the past every now and again. but if you have limited internet time I say ask away, even though I have nothing to do with running this forum, so mine is only an opinion. highdesertranger