Please tell us to which other institutions you have applied? - Should we answer this?

[mr_anxious]

I guess almost all the graduate applications ask this question - "Please tell us to which other institutions you have applied?"

1. What is the purpose of this question? 
2. Do they use it in anyway in their review process?
3. If yes, does it impact my chances whether I don't answer or answer this question? And If I do, do the answers matter? [something like I can legally NOT waive my right to accessing my letters of recommendation but it is considered to be more credible if I DO waive the right?]

 

Thanks!

Edited September 6, 2014 by mr_anxious

[victorydance]

Come on man, this question was asked last week in the same sub-forum. 

 

[mr_anxious]

Sorry, I am new here. I did a quick search but missed that post somehow. Yes, it matches my question perfectly.