Does Size Matter?

We can say it doesn't, but we all know it does.  So tell me---exactly how big do you like 'em?

This'd probably be a good time to tell you that I'm talking about chapter size.  One thing I've learned through writing and editing is that there are often multiple potential chapter breaks.  Sometimes an obvious stopping point screams out, but what to do when that doesn't happen?

 Should word count be considered?

For example, I've finally gotten back to my WIP and hammered out at least the beginning of a first chapter. I've reached a point where I could end the chapter...or I could keep going.  Either way it'll work just fine from a story perspective. As it stands right now, I'm at 2055 words, roughly 8 pages in print.  That strikes me as rather too short.  Is it?  Or is short a good thing? And do I need to aim for consistent chapter length throughout the story (I typically try to)? Or is content all that matters and I should stop asking these questions?

A little help, please: 

1. As a reader, would you say you generally prefer long or short chapters (how do you define long & short)?

2. What's too long?  What's too short?

3. Do you prefer chapter length to be consistent throughout a novel, or do you like to mix it up, or do you not really notice.

4. Does your chapter length preference differ depending on the media on which you're reading: hard copy; computer; e-reader?      

 

Thanks for your input.  And now, on to Meet an Author Monday.  We're doing something new for the new year!

On the last Monday of each month, authors on the hop are asked to feature a post on a unified topic. This month's topic is:

Where You Write

So sign up for the hop on January 31 and post a picture of where you write. Tell us how you started writing there, why you like writing there, etc. etc. We want to know all about where the magic happens!