Frequently Asked Questions

This is a single FAQ from the MetaFilter FAQ.

Why was my MetaFilter post deleted?

When a thread is deleted, it is closed to new comments and is removed from the front page but can still be viewed at the permanent URL for the thread. There is a brief "reason for deletion" given when a MetaFilter thread is removed. The most common reasons are:

- double-post - the exact link or one linking to nearly the same content has already been posted
- self-link or promotional linking - you posted something to MetaFilter that is on your own site or that you contributed heavily towards, or that you're involved (professionally or otherwise) in promoting, or your post concerns a situation that you're personally involved with.
- newsfilter - you posted a link to a news article without creating a post that would lead to good discussion
- axegrinding - you posted on a hot-button topic that you frequently post about and/or used heavy-handed editorializing language.
- broken link - you posted a link to something that is no longer available on the web
- stunt post - you were doing something cutesy or pointed with your post that was making some sort of statement, not linking to something neat on the web
- fundraising/promotion - you linked to a "sign this petition" or fundraising link [Kickstarter, indiegogo]

Please note: post deletions are a judgement of the post, not the poster. MetaFilter is a moderated site and not all posts pass muster, but deletion is meant as a curatorial decision, not a punishment; most folks who post a fair amount will have something deleted occasionally. Unless you're actually spamming, a deletion doesn't mean you're in trouble.
(tags: ) April 20, 2006 - back to questions