The "write better" goal is one big reason I participate in online discussions like HN. Big ideas with lots of critics and fast responses mean you have to learn to write concise, to the point, be persuasive, and be interesting. The more you write, the better you'll write - so long as you value writing well. Watch how people respond, both in replies and in up/down "karma" votes. Get in vigorous (but friendly! always friendly!) discussions with those with opposing views. Learn verbal "judo", using their words to make your point. Know how much research is appropriate to make a point; write enough to be thorough & clear, but not so long as to lose most readers.
Comments
The "write better" goal is one big reason I participate in online discussions like HN. Big ideas with lots of critics and fast responses mean you have to learn to write concise, to the point, be persuasive, and be interesting. The more you write, the better you'll write - so long as you value writing well. Watch how people respond, both in replies and in up/down "karma" votes. Get in vigorous (but friendly! always friendly!) discussions with those with opposing views. Learn verbal "judo", using their words to make your point. Know how much research is appropriate to make a point; write enough to be thorough & clear, but not so long as to lose most readers.
Write.
A.
Lot.