Proper Forum Etiquette

Forum etiquette doesn't just apply to AC forums it applies to all forums everywhere. Each forum on the Internet has its own rules. What all forums have in common is a standard set of forum etiquette. How should you act and respond on forums?

Be professional

No matter what forum you read and respond to you need to keep your comments professional. Your reputation on the forum will grow very positive and people will tend to listen to more. Forums are no place for childish and immature behavior. All that accomplishes is to anger other members. If your posts anger people they will have a tendency to discount everything you have to say even if you are right.

Be Positive as much as possible

I know its difficult to be positive all the time especially when you are having a problem or complaint. You can still post to thread in positive manner. The moderators will be more than happy to answer your inquiries if posted in a positive manner. These responses will help others later who may have the same problem or question. Everyone gets frustrated now and than just try to not be vindictive when you post on a forum.

Put your posts in the proper forum

Every forum has guidelines for where certain problems, questions, and comments go. Try to post your comments in the proper forum. If you don't the moderators will most likely move your thread or they may even delete it. Its your responsibility to follow the rules of a forum.

Do not attack others

Its okay to disagree and to have discussions thats what forums are for. To attack someone personally is always frowned upon and could possibly get your forum account suspended. If you resort to name calling and personal attacks don't be surprised if your account is terminated.

Stay on topic

Its important when your responding to topics you stay on topic most forums will have rules regarding that. If you slant a discussion on another topic your post maybe ignored. Its important for discussion purposes you stay on topic or not post at all to that thread. If you have another topic that needs to be addressed start a new topic.

Use the search to see if your question has been answered

Most forums frown upon making duplicate posts on the same topic. They prefer you use the search feature to see if this topic has been discussed and answered before. Most of the time if you spend some time searching you should be able to find the answer your looking for.

Don't bump old threads

AC does not have a rule concerning this but some forums do not like you opening old topics. Make sure you read the rules before you post.

Read the rules before posting

Most all forums will have a sticky with this statement. It is always a good idea before you post to any forum that you read the rules. If you don't you may find that you may violate a rule and anger the moderators. Those rules are there for you to read. Its no excuse if you don't read them and get banned.

Follow these simple tips and you will be able to enjoy almost any forum.