16

A user recently posted a as they were being informed that they couldn't post a duplicate answer, even though they were under the impression that it wasn't one. The answer was, in fact, a duplicate, however, it was a duplicate of an answer they had deleted to an open-ended question. They, as both the author and a 10k user, could not access/see said answer, giving them the impression it was a comment (where duplicates are allowed). As a mod (for the entire duration of the experiment, so I've not seen what things look like as a 10k user), that a 10k user couldn't access their deleted answer was quite confusing (and led to quite a incorrect assumptions on both sides).

Users should be able to access their own deleted answers, regardless of if it's to a "traditional" Q&A or an open-ended question. I would also suggest that 10k users with the access to moderator tools - Access reports, delete questions, review reviews privilege should also be able to see said deleted answers. That the question is open- ended shouldn't change how the visibility works.

Also, these deleted questions should still have the correct features underneath them. Even as a mod I can't access the edit feature, as the ellipsis menu isn't displayed on deleted answers:

A image show that the ellipsis menu is available on an answer that isn't deleted, but isn't displayed on a deleted answer.

Note: Undelete is displayed elsewhere, even though delete is in the ellipsis menu for mods and users.

2
  • 2
    meta.stackoverflow.com/a/437808/11107541 ? also, I'm just remembering now- didn't staff request bug/feature-request feedback to go there? Commented Dec 21, 2025 at 22:16
  • 2
    Considering the amount of bugs and issues arising from the feature, I'm more of mind that separate posts are better now, @starball . At least they can be status-reviewed. Commented Dec 21, 2025 at 23:04

0

You must log in to answer this question.

Start asking to get answers

Find the answer to your question by asking.

Ask question

Explore related questions

See similar questions with these tags.