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I just recently posted a question where I quickly received two correct responses. The first was posted a few minutes after I asked my question, and the second about four minutes later.

The first answer while correct, was terse. The second answer had additional elaboration that provided context. I am satisfied with the first answer, but the second provided additional information that I didn't know (which was not necessary for the solution, but interesting nonetheless).

My question: Is it more appropriate to accept the first correct answer, or the one that took additional work (and time) to provide more detail?

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    You decide. It is completely up to you. Which did you find more useful? Which person do you want to reward the 15 rep too?
    – Zoredache
    Commented Mar 28, 2012 at 19:52
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    Keep in mind that the accepted answer may get more visibility, especially from people who do not visit the site often. So choosing a detailed answer rather than the first correct one is not a bad thing.
    – gparent
    Commented Mar 30, 2012 at 19:05

3 Answers 3

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Both answers being equally correct, I would consider the one with details and explanation "more correct" and accept that one, provided the details and explanation are accurate and correct.

The more complete answer that explains The Why behind the problem and solution hopefully encourages people reading it to learn more about their systems, and that's something we as a community heartily encourage :-)

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  • Thanks, I guess that's the proper way to look at it. I ended up choosing the first answer (you know the question I'm referring to), but was surprised that I was torn about choosing an answer. I ended up giving the second answer an upvote so their effort wasn't in vain.
    – newmanth
    Commented Mar 28, 2012 at 20:12
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Accepting answers, like voting, tends to be a somewhat personal decision. Not everyone is going to agree with your choice but that doesn't mean that choice is either right or wrong.

I used to simply accept the first answer but now tend to wait a little longer. It's not at all uncommon to receive multiple correct answers and these days I prefer to accept an answer for more reasons that just being correct. Some people put a lot of effort into their answers and I feel that in many cases those should receive the rep.

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Absolutely accept the answer that is the most helpful, which is always the one with the most relevant detail.

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