[Iaks]

Where is 'this.' coming from? Coding syntax?

I just don't get it. I've seen it in HN comments for a few days now, but I fail to understand how 'this.' relates any new information. Reply indenting already tells me you are referring to an antecedent post. (A specific post in fact.)

Am I missing something, or is this just a new web fad I'm not savvy too? (Second option is not entirely unlikely...)

[StavrosK]

It's just for added emphasis. It's the contraction of roughly "this is the correct answer".

[Iaks]

Thanks for enlightening me =)

[billforsternz]

This is the new +1

[absconditus]

It is popular on sites like reddit. It basically means "I agree".