I've used *science* to develop a formula that accurately characterizes threads like these:
let
x = the effort required to provide a simple and direct answer to the OP's inquiry;
y = the effort required to sneer at the OP's failure to identify the answer via Search;
bs = random smartass replies (a constant proportional to the thread length);
therefore:
y + bs > 12.5(x)
Though Ive never tried to get this particular tone, I think it requires more than X.
So lets add one, shall we? Z = the effort it takes to link, yet again, to past discussions so the interested parties can read about the multitude of effects required to get this particular tone without having to do any of the work themselves.
And, while were at it, lets add a Y(a) = the effort required to sneer at the people who are tired of this subject coming up day in and day out, oh and coming up with some BS mathematical equation.