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Netiquette is etiquette for the internet.

The anonymity of the internet makes it easy to forget that on the internet we are interacting with real humans through computers, not with the computers themselves.

There are few bodies that enforce any sets of behaviour on the net. 'Netizens' are expected to find out what is acceptable behaviour for the net, and to abide by these guidelines. These guidelines apply mostly to e-mail between netizens, and to postings to newsgroups. In general, following these guidelines results in a more pleasurable experience for you on the internet.
  • Humanity
    Despite the fact that it may seem like you are talking to a machine, remember that there is a person on the other end. Communicate with that person as you would if s/he were standing in front of you.
  • Cyberspace
    Cyberspace is very big, and contains many sub-groups and sub-cultures, each being different and unique. What may be seen as “cool” behaviour in certain sectors, may be frowned upon and disliked in others. When you enter a new area, browse around for a while, get acquainted with the customs and language of that area before posting.
  • Information
    Try to avoid sending unecessary information, as it may be irritating to others. Send only what is necessary and avoid sending the entire text of a message you are replying to.
  • Share
    Everyone starts at some point or other. If there is someone that asks a question, and you know the answer, be polite enough to answer.
  • Respect for others
    Posting the text of private communications on public boards or pages, without the
    consent of the author(s), shows a blatent disrespect for the privacy of others. Avoid this.
  • Power Abuse
    If you are in a position of power on the net (eg. being an operator on a chatline) don't abuse it. You were given this power to administrate, not dictate.
  • Keep Calm
    If you become involved in a “war-of-words” with another party, show some control.
    Instead of becoming heated up and saying irrational things, just stay quiet or end the conversation.
  • Forgive and Help
    On the internet, as in life, people make mistakes. When faced with such a scenario, be
    forgiving and helpful. Tell the person what s/he has done wrong and show her/him
    how to correct the mistake.

 

So, to avoid being snarled at for stepping on virtual toes, use the following guidelines:

  • Never forget that the person on the other side is human
  • E-mail is not necessarily private- never e-mail something you wouldn't write on a postcard
  • Be careful what you say about others
  • Be brief
  • DON'T USE ALL CAPS - it's rude, on the net this means you are shouting
  • Your postings reflect upon you; be proud of them
  • Use descriptive titles in your postings
  • Think about appropriateness to your audience
  • Be careful with humor and sarcasm
  • Only post a message once
  • Use e-mail when correspondence is private, don't post a follow-up to the group
  • Summarize what you are following up
  • Read all follow-ups and don't repeat what has already been said
  • Double-check follow-up distribution, know who will receive your mail
  • Be careful about copyrights and licenses
  • Cite appropriate references
  • When summarizing, summarize
  • Mark or rotate answers or spoilers, eg. movie endings, puzzle answers
  • Flames for spelling are a waste of time
  • Don't overdo signatures
  • Limit line length and avoid control characters


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