What’s the Value of Highlighting?

Summary

The article questions the value of highlighting content on a platform, considering whether it impacts the algorithm or serves merely as a social signal, while also critiquing the notification system that may exaggerate the significance of highlights.

Abstract

The author expresses skepticism about the practical benefits of highlighting articles online, noting that most readers do not revisit content and questioning whether highlights are simply a way to express approval or if they have a more significant impact on the platform's engagement algorithm. The article suggests that highlights might be considered a form of engagement but criticizes the notification system for inflating the perceived level of interaction by notifying users of highlights in a way that seems more substantial than it actually is. The author admits that the topic might not require an extensive discussion and invites readers to share their thoughts on the utility of highlights and the potential need for improvement in the notification system.

Opinions

The author doubts the effectiveness of highlights as a tool for readers to revisit content.
Highlights are seen as a possible form of engagement that could influence the

Does it help the algorithm?

I’ve always wondered if there was any actual value to highlighting an article. I feel like the average person isn’t going to come back to the story, so it isn’t as if they’re highlighting it for themselves. So, is it just as a way to tell everyone they liked those things and that’s it? Or is there some kind of algorithmic advantage to highlighting?

Some would say there probably is because it’s a form of engagement. Unless that difference is significant though, I can’t say I’m a huge fan of people highlighting. I actually wouldn’t have an issue with it but our notifications will take somebody's highlights and gaslight you with a number making you think you got way more interaction than you did.

Ooh! 12 notifications! I wonder what people are reacting to! Oh, wait… one person just highlighted a story. Well… that was anticlimactic! It’s this really, that drives me nuts about highlights.

Well, honestly there isn’t a whole lot more to be said about this. I probably could have just squeezed this a bit tighter and made it into a short form, lol.

I’m curious, what does everyone else think of highlights and our wonky notification system? I’d love to hear from you!