Protect Yourself from the Dreaded Downrater

The Dreaded Downrater is considered by some to be a mythical creature, but it is very real. In the shadows of Associated Content, these foul beasts lurk about seeking unsuspecting Content Producers on which to prey. With penetrating eyes, insatiable hunger, and an index finger built for repeated clicking, the Dreaded Downrater is a creature to be feared. Thankfully there are some ways to protect yourself from this terrible beast. Have you heard the saying "Don't feed the troll"? Well, you definitely don't want to feed the Dreaded Downrater.

1. Don't comment negatively on another user's article. They may seem reasonable, friendly, and open-minded, but they may be a Were-Downrater. In the dead of night when the full moon rises, this seemingly benevolent Content Producer transforms into a Dreaded Downrater and attacks all those who have left negative remarks. The Dreaded Downrater cannot handle criticism.

2. Avoiding commenting on controversial articles. Dreaded Downraters may be hiding there, waiting to pounce upon any with whom they disagree. If you do comment, avoid giving your opinion, or try to make wishy-washy statements that everyone will like. Don't anger the Dreaded Downrater!

3. Don't say anything anyone may find offensive or disagreeable, whatsoever! Dreaded Downraters will lunge at anyone who offends them, even if it was unintentional. Their feelings are easily hurt, for their egos are fragile. These beasts need someone to reach out to them, but no one can...for they bite the hand of any who try to help.

4. In fact, maybe it's best not to comment at all. The Dreaded Downrater may even target you over a short, nice comment like "Nice job." These creatures are never satisfied, always demanding more: more targets, longer comments, more words of praise. They love the spotlight.

5. Avoid angering, offending, and disagreeing with others on the boards, too! Just be nice! Dreaded Downraters may be lurking there, too, looking for innocent Content Producers to mangle. And never ever tell someone they are wrong.

6. Complaining about the Dreaded Downrater will only give him pleasure and feed his desire to torment you. Do it only in private, and never where he can see. He will only laugh, open your article in his browser, and get back to clicking even faster just to torture you.

7. As for your articles, keep them free of all spelling and grammar errors. A single typo is enough to awaken the rage of a Dreaded Downrater. These beasts have dangerous tempers and are easily angered. Unfortunately, even well-written pieces could attract Dreaded Downraters, as many of them are not too brilliant with spelling and grammar. Remember, the Dreaded Downrater is a jealous creature.

8. Make sure all of your facts are 100% true. Any misinformation whatsoever could trigger an attack from a Dreaded Downrater, even a small mistake. They will chew you up and spit you out for saying violent rather than purple when talking about an amethyst.

9. Keep your writing unbiased. Never give your opinion, unless it's wishy-washy enough that no one will mind it. Even then though, a Dreaded Downrater may target you just for that! This is especially true of controversial articles. Remember, aim to please all!

10. Never, ever get on the front page! Pray for ratings high enough to be acceptable, but low enough to keep you off the front page! The Dreaded Downrater's jealousy is easily ignited by 4.8 or higher ratings, for he covers the front page placement of which his own articles are unworthy.

It may be hard, but these are the only ways to avoid the Dreaded Downrater. Associated Content Admins have only just now began admitting their existence, but so far they have no battle plan. Some people still refuse to believe they exist! Do not make that mistake. I know better, and now you do, too! Go forth now, and steer clear of the Dreaded Downrater. Keep a low-profile, unless you want to be its next victims. And pray that soon, some Dreaded Downrater slayers will be trained and set loose on Associated Content, so we can all feel safe and at ease as we wander the land.