Forum Netiquette for Newbies

Whether for television shows, videogames, books, or even professions, Internet forums (also referred to as message boards) are a great way to connect to other people with similar interests. If you're new to a forum, it can be a daunting experience. Just like in real life, there's cliques, divas, and unwritten rules. Most of the time, however, joining a forum is a positive experience where you can meet new people or become part of a close-knit community. To ensure a smooth beginning, here are ten tips on netiquette that apply to most forums.

1. Shun Netspeak: OMG!1! i saw johny dep @ teh mall tdy and he sad hi to me & askd me to mry him...my bff Jil saw it hppn if u dont beleive me...

Okay, so maybe I'm exaggerating a little in this example. Netspeak refers to abbreviations (e.g., LOL, OMG, LMAO), misspellings, and a loose regard for punctuation. Abbreviations are usually acceptable so long as you use only one per paragraph. Nothing says newbie more than Netspeak. Sure, some Web sites thrive on Netspeak, but you can't go wrong writing in plain English. You'll be understood, and you don't risk getting mauled by a grammar nazi.

2. Avoid all caps: HEY GUYS, WHAT'S GOING ON IN THIS THREAD?

This tip is self-explanatory. If you don't know already, using all caps is considered shouting. Most people use caps as a way to standout in the thread comments. However, using all caps actually makes it harder to read your comment, and the only attention you'll receive is from forum members berating you and telling you that you're shouting.

3. Split up your text.

While forum members probably won't comment on splitting up your text, it's still something that will improve your post's readability. Dividing your sentences into paragraphs (three to four sentences per paragraph is a good number) ensures that people won't strain their eyes trying to read your post.

4. Don't spam: Hey everyone, I was wondering if you could come take a look at my blog! I just want some feedback; please tell me what you think!

People hate spammers. You hate spammers. But if you're new to a forum, even posting links to your own site will be considered spam. Your post will either be deleted or mocked by people who think you're trying to con them.

5. Don't be an echo: I agree.

This tip mostly applies to forums that keep post counts next to your screen name. Forum members will think that you're just trying to boost your numbers if you post only a two-word comment. On other types of forums it may not matter as much. Still, people generally like to hear your full opinion instead of a simple "I agree" or "I disagree."

6. Use the search function.

Before you create a thread in the forum, check out the forum's search function to see if a similar thread has already been posted. At the very least, scan the first page of topics to see if your idea has already been discussed. If you don't find anything recent, then post away.

7. Respect the regulars.

Let's go back to point number six. Let's say you wanted to create a new thread and, using the search function, found an old thread on your topic from 2001. So, you go ahead and post your new thread. Within minutes, you get a response from someone: "Sigh (yes, people do actually type a theatrical "sigh"), this thread has been discussed here and here. Learn to use the search function. Newbies. Sheeesh."

At this point, you may want to reply with a sarcastic response of your own. Instead, either reply politely or just wait for other people to respond. There's always a few regulars that are overzealous with the search function or other rules. If it's necessary, allow more established members to deal with them.

8. Don't be afraid of the regulars: Hi, I'm new. Please don't hurt me.

At the other end of the scale, sometimes new people are overly obsequious. You don't have to be timid. Follow tip number 10, and you'll become more confident that what you're posting is valuable, and that it's not necessary to load your posts with a bunch of qualifiers.

9. Don't rile up people for the sake of riling them up: Anyone who thinks like that is a frickin' idiot. Get a life.

Of course, if your goal is to anger people, you're probably not reading this article on forum netiquette. In any case, it's always necessary to be polite. Even if you're stating your true beliefs, people will accuse you of being a troll (someone who will write inflammatory posts just to get attention) if you write your posts in a provocative way. People might also think that you're an alt (someone already on the forum who created a new account to be a troll).

10. Lurk before you post.

Each forum has its own culture and nuances. Maybe using Netspeak is the norm and typing in plain English is conspicuous. Maybe you should be rude and load your posts with swears. Read a few threads before you post. Some people will read forums for weeks or even months before they contribute. While that may be overdoing it, you should at least get a handle on the personality of the forum.