I have always seen the clap request as a reminder, but you made a fair point. It could come across desperate.

I give most comments 20ish likes. I don't pay as much attention to claps on comments. I always give 50 claps on articles. If I really don't like an article, I leave 0.

Thank you for sharing your honest thoughts! I appreciate you giving me the full 50 claps haha. (-: