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Netiquette and Proper Usage of the Forums


In any social interaction, following rules of etiquette leads to more enjoyable and productive communication. The Internet is no different -- in fact, there's even a special word for it: "Netiquette!"

  1. Remember the people on the Forum are real humans with real feelings!
    Even though you are using a computer to communicate, don't forget that other people are on the receiving end. Avoid personal attacks. Don't post in haste – try not to say anything to others that you would not say to them in a room full of people. Remember that you are playing an important role in building our online community – and we all want this community to be an informative, fun and friendly place.

  2. Be Brief
    Most people who come to this forum do not have time to read long messages and will end up scanning through long posts. Choose your words carefully to get your question or message across.

  3. Your message reflects on you
    Your posts reflect on your personality and allow others to know who you are. What you say and how you say it will help you get the assistance you need. Take time to post your message making sure that you will be clearly understood.

  4. Use descriptive Subject headings in your posts
    The subject line of your message is there to tell people what your message is about; it helps them to decide whether or not they want to read it. So, use the subject line.

  5. Stay on topic
    Post your messages in the appropriate Thread. By reading a number of the messages before posting one yourself, you will be able to get a sense of the ongoing themes of discussion in that thread.

  6. Be careful when using humor
    Remember that what you type in a post may not always be interpreted the same way. Some people may be easily offended by wise-cracks. Use emoticons to convey the sense of humor.

  7. Do not quote the entire message you are replying to.
    Summarize your posts by using selected sentences or quotes from a previous post you are responding to. This will help keep forum messages brief, to the point and easy to read and understand.

  8. Show your appreciation!
    If you receive responses to your question, give back and let people know you appreciate their help. Likewise, be a "giver" as well as a "taker" in this online community. If you have good and valuable information to share, please do so in the appropriate thread or start a new one if needed.

  9. Cite appropriate references
    If you are using facts to support a post you make, state where they came from. This will help others know where to go for follow-up. Give credit where credit is due.

  10. DO NOT POST A MESSAGE IN ALL CAPS!
    This is considered shouting. If you feel the need to emphasize something use caps on certain words or use *asterisks* to surround your message. This will get your point across politely.

  11. Removal of Messages
    The forum administrators reserve the right to remove any post that does not adhere to the purpose of the Paint Shop Pro Users Group. This includes but is not limited to messages that contains bad language, accusations, inappropriate images, blatant advertising or other information which is not permitted.