The Benefits or Rating?

I think Sandra has explained it quite well. I rate almost everything provided it deserve a + rating and as for the - minus ratings, that is one I have only used a couple of times, a post is to be rated negative only if the writer is publishing inappropriate comments I guess, although it is a fine line because if a MyLotter is behaving in an obnoxious manner or going against the guidelines it is sometimes worth report him or her. I don't believe it to be a waste of time, reporting guideline abusers helps admin maintain a good standard on the site.

Rating helps everyone improve their reputation and so increase their earnings. It only takes a second or two, but I don't rate every comment, only the ones that stand out as very good or very bad. Don't rate negative just because you disagree with the opinion expressed, and don't waste time rating one line comments, as we're encouraged to write posts of at least 3 or 4 lines. I always rate the discussion itself, as someone has gone to the trouble to think up the topic.