Yes, but not because of longer vs. shorter. More because longer answers normally equal a better and more detailed answer.

not always --sometimes being succinct has more impact.

I don't think so unless the question is one that requires a lengthy answer or explanation.

well, that's a tough call. not necessarily. but, it really depends on the question. some answers may be longer but only because more explanation is needed.

No. Some people can get a great point across in a sentence or two, than one that is long winded and says nothing.

It depends.

for ME it depends on the question asked ...I can give an answer in one sentence that has more impact than a full page answer but some questions require a slightly longer answer ...so I take each question on a little differently to the next one and again the points depend on what the person who asked the question is/was looking for and whether other ABers like/agree with what I have said

I give points based on the answer. Sometimes a longer answer isn't as good as a shorter one. As long as I think the question was answered completely, I don't care how long or short the answer is.

Not necessarily. If you can explain your answer in a few words (and it's good) you'll get points. If you can't, then sometimes it takes a longer answer. And sometimes you (the answerer) just wants to explain all the points they're trying to make.

if it's a long answer w no point. i don't give points give credit where credit is due. long or short

Yes but I also thinks it depends on the question. With some questions, there are basically one word answers. For example, I asked a question to search for a Viggo Mortensen film and someone went on and on about Viggo and not answering the question. If a long answer is relevant, then yeah it's the best (some questions I have asked were literally screaming for long detailed answers) but if it's just questions asking for a few words, then it's a turn off to read their long winded answers trying to find what you are looking for. I personally think its about quality instead of quantity. The people who give long answers usually give more details for the question on here. So usually the 2 are combined but some people write really long answers that has to do with nothing. I tend to be a little wordy... sometimes it's good and sometimes it's too much. Depends on the question and the quality of the answer. I often give long answers in order to be thorough, to give a really useful answer and it seems to be working for me because I have an over 40% best answer rating. The negative side is that, in order to give a complete and accurate answer, some people accuse me of "chatting." Face it, the definition of "chatting" is broad enough to drive a semi-truck through it and so they gig me points. That sucks. I usually make a couple paragraphs for every answer. It doesn't always mean it's the best though. I've had different opinions. Sometimes, I will answer with a long answer, & end up losing best answer because the guy below me answered "short, sweet, & to-the-point", according to the asker's feedback response. Other times, people will thank me for being more specific than the lazy guy who just pasted a link for his answer, & therefore being more helpful. It's different for all askers.