Therefore, I’d like to put a public service message out to new members as well as those new to posting:
Firstly: You must read the How-to and Hints post and follow it. This will help resolve some of the issues.
Second: Learn to use PM so you don’t clog up threads with dumb off the topic questions. It’s a much more effective and direct tool for you.
Third: Learn to edit your posts. See the button on the right of your posts? If you mess up or need to add another thought or detail a minute later, use it. If you see you used too many "enter keys" and your post has big ugly gaps, fix it.
In addition, we expect, if not demand, of our posters to try to sound intelligent and coherent.
I’ve looked at a lot of posts and scratched my head and wondered, “Is there an actual question in there?” or “What point is s/he trying to make exactly?” You need to read an entire thread before you post- you only look like an idiot if you restate a point agreed on a week earlier. Get with the program folks.
We have a lot of very smart posters here, and they can (happily) rip your post to shreds if you post something dumb.
Spelling, grammar, and formatting counts. I don’t know where else you guys post, but around here you are expected to use capitalization, punctuation, and proper spelling. Other posters might skip over your posts if they're too hard to read or worse you will irritate other posters who try to decipher your graffiti-scrawl.
Spell words out fully (no any1 or bc or u or 2) and at least try to spell things correctly (like “rite” -that’s only at ShopRite Stores). We all miss-type liek as like now and them, but sometimes it gets out of hand. If you need spelling help, you can download ieSpeller, an easy and free spell check to use. I know “its hard,” I’m the queen of failed spelling tests. If I can make an effort and do it, so can you.
It’s not “cute” unless it’s an established joke (like reelee or SDJ). You can use internet slang on other sites, in aim with your friends, and in email, but when you are having a semi-intelligent conversation or debate here with someone, you are expected to post intelligently.
On the same vein, try to capitalize the beginning of sentences, as well as the term “I”. Besides for being grammatically correct, it gives your post an overall polished look. I’m not going to get on your case if you skip capitals in a quick, 3 line post, but if you’re writing a megilla make it look like worthwhile reading.
CAPS LOCK is evil. Posts made in caps locks will get you on Santa’s naughty list. You know what happens to those kids...
Overall, if you take the time to think out what you’re going to say, and take the time to post it in a clear and readable way- you’ll post something worth reading and responding too.
Otherwise we will mock you. I kid you not.
I don’t like being the grammar police and having to go into peoples posts and edit them. If you can’t manage to post intelligent and clearly I’ll just put your posts in a “need to be approved queue” and delete the “wazzup every1?” posts until you learn. And did I mention we will mock you?
Its not that we are unfriendly or mean (ok, that’s debatable), but if you can’t keep up and run with the team on a basic level, you should be sitting on the bench in the sidelines.*
On behalf of all our readers, thank you for complying.
*score! How many points do you get for using a sports metaphor?
Does anyone else have something to add? You can do so in the thread in the feedback/support area
PS. Don't flip out on me, my
old users... this was not directed at you.
