My recent show HN post got flagged need guidance
This topic is genuinely contested — read the individual model responses for different perspectives.
Models agree on
- ✓Show HN posts must focus on technical projects rather than marketing or promotion
- ✓Provide sufficient detail and context about the project
- ✓Avoid overly promotional or spammy language
- ✓Engage with the community and seek constructive feedback
When your Show HN post gets flagged, it’s important to carefully evaluate why and take steps to improve future submissions. All responses agree that Show HN posts must focus on showcasing interesting projects with technical depth rather than marketing or promotion. Here’s a consolidated guide to navigate this situation and improve your future posts:
Why Your Post May Have Been Flagged
- ·Off-topic or low-quality content: Show HN is for sharing substantive projects, not general news or unrelated content.
- ·Overly promotional or spammy tone: Avoid hard-selling or using marketing jargon. Focus on the technical aspects of your project.
- ·Lack of context or explanation: Provide sufficient detail about your project, including the problem it solves, how it works, and the challenges you faced.
- ·Duplicate or repetitive content: Ensure your post isn’t redundant with recent submissions.
- ·Technical issues or mistakes: Double-check for formatting errors or accidental oversights.
Guidance for Future Posts
- ·Lead with technical details: Shift from marketing to engineering mode. Explain the tech stack, algorithms, or challenges you overcame.
- ·Write a detailed first comment: After posting, immediately add a comment explaining the ‘why,’ ‘how,’ and specific feedback you’re seeking.
- ·Audit your landing page: Include technical explanations or an ‘About’ page detailing the architecture.
- ·Engage with the community: Be an active participant in discussions and seek constructive feedback.
- ·Resubmit thoughtfully: If flagged, revise your post to address concerns and wait a few days before reposting.
If You Believe It Was Flagged in Error
- ·Contact moderators: Politely inquire about the flagging, but keep your communication brief and technical.
- ·Learn from the experience: Use the feedback to refine your understanding of HN’s community and guidelines.
Show HN values projects that demonstrate ‘proof of work’—focus on the craft and technical depth of your project, and you’ll have a better chance of success.
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