The Core Rules of Netiquette
- Remember the human
Never forget that your message is read by a person with feelings that can be hurt.
Do not message anything you would not say to face-to-face.
Do not try to incite an emotional response deliberately.
- Follow the same standards of behavior online
As in real life, be ethical, and do not break the law.
- Know where you are in cyberspace
Standards vary across websites, so be mindful of the content and tone of your message.
- Respect other people's time
Recognize that not everyone prioritizes your messages similarly.
Send messages to the appropriate group of people.
When appropriate, use a private message (PM) over messaging an entire group.
Always check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and documentation first.
- Make yourself look good
Check grammar and spelling before sending messages.
Only send knowledgeable and coherent messages.
- Share your expertise
Provide help and offer answers for those who ask questions.
If you answer your own question, share the solution with the group.
- Help monitor hostile and insulting interactions
Do not respond emotionally to messages; give yourself time to cool.
Do not deliberately insult or try to evoke an emotional response out of someone.
If you do any of these things, explicitly apologize.
- Respect other people's privacy
Do not read other people's private messages.
- Do not abuse your power
With great power comes great responsibility. Use it well.
- Be forgiving of mistakes
We are humans, after all!
adapted from Virginia Shea's Netiquette book