I completely agree that it doesn't make sense to respond to every single comment. Here's my (current) process:

- Any comment from someone I know - I clap and at least thank them for reading.

- Generic comment like "Thank you" from someone I don't know - I clap to show I took note of their comment. However, since there's no addition to the conversation, I see no reason to reply.

- Positive comment about how what I'd written helped them, how it was unique, etc. - I thank them and if they included any details of their own experience I acknowledge it and if there's anything further I can provide, I do.

- Comment that disagrees with me in a constructive way - I engage, and either accept their correction (if it's important enough I edit my article and thank them in the edit for the correction), or if I disagree I explain why.

- Comment that's just negative with no useful info for anyone, I let it be.

- Flame comment or spam - I hide the comment - no need to give anyone the satisfaction or traffic

Having said all the above, I don't think the old adage of "If you have nothing nice to say then say nothing" holds true online. I'd rather you told me if you disagree with me, and explain why rather than decide it's not nice to leave a dissenting note.

That's how we can further the conversation and add value for other readers.

If it's something as trivial (but important) as a typo, I especially appreciate it when a reader leaves a private note alerting me to it, rather than commenting or highlighting it. Regardless, however it's pointed out to me, I appreciate it and make the correction.