- NEW!
by Jodie44 on July 18th, 2007
Great question, LadyLuck.
1) Please use upper and lower case when you type - no ALL CAPS
2) Please spell out words like "you're" and "you"
3) Please don't answer questions with "I don't know" or "Maybe". If you don't know the answer, it's better to leave the question alone.
4) Please keep your temper in check. "Begin in anger, end in shame".
5) Asking for, or promising, points in questions is against AB's Terms of Service agreement, and is a sure way to get downrated.
6) Remember that while you can always edit your answers, comments are permanent. Think long and hard before you write something rude in a comment thread.
7) Lively debate is one thing, but when a debater starts name-calling and personal attacks, it's almost certain he or she is out of substantive arguments. When you see stuff like, "You're crazy", you can unsubscribe from the thread and walk away, because the debate is over, even if others continue adding comments. Recognizing that it's time to leave a heated comment thread, and then leaving, will help keep your reputation clean and you, out of the Penalty Box.
8) Because it's easy to misunderstand people in an all-text environment anyway, ABing after you've been drinking (or in some other altered state of consciousness, take your pick) is a bad idea. I can't count the number of times I've read explanations and apologies in comment threads like, "Sorry I wasn't making sense last night, but..." or "I gotta quit ABUI. Sorry about that." and it's all so unnecessary. I'm not suggesting you stop partying - but, you know - there's a time and place for everything.
by unknown on July 18th, 2007
I have found that if you make a comment when you rate people, it makes a positive impression on them. They will remember you better and you will build relationships faster. This is a community here and relationships are important. Comments are the best way to join the community.
Be polite even when you disagree. That will take you far. Ugliness leaves a bad taste in one's mouth. Avoid it if you can.
Use the answer search to see if your question has already been asked. That will save you from having your answer flagged as a duplicate. It's at the top of the page and is called "search for answers."
Respect other users. They may not be people you want to associate with but they have a right to be here just like you and me. Just avoid users who annoy you. That's the best way to handle it. If they don't get a rise out of you then they will get bored and move on.
IGNORE TROLLS! Don't worry about a few negative ratings. We all get them. Most of the time you won't know why or who down rated you. That's just the way it is. Just examine the question or answer and if you think there is nothing wrong then move on. I turn my ratings button off so I don't even see them. It's better that way for me. I enjoy it here much more now.
Use proper grammar and spelling when posting questions and answers. This goes a long way towards building your credibility. People will judge you based on your use of grammar and spelling. It's all we have to go on at first. A lot of people will just ignore poorly worded questions and you will be down rated.
by Andy Is Wicked Married to Penal Colony on August 3rd, 2008
1. Don't start drama. Seriously, see the links. Very few people like it.
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/877950
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/861844
2. Be respectful. Contribute in a positive and meaningful way. If you disagree with another ABer, agree to disagree or debate in a civil manner. If you can't get along with somebody here--just avoid them. Don't look for a fight and don't be a hothead. Have a good attitude and you'll fit right in.
3. Dont be a Point Farmer :(
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/158512
On the flip side of that don't post statements. They will be flagged as nonsense. Plus, this is a Q & A site. That Q is very important.
4. Check for duplicates before you post a question. Just type your question into the search box to see if it already exists. Please no more Why is the sky blue? It makes all of AB groan simultaneously.
5. Rate answers to your questions. It's rude not to acknowledge answers to questions you ask. And rate questions you answer.
6. Retaliatory downrating isn't cool and it will earn you a trip to the Penalty Box: http://www.answerbag.com/c_view/5390
7. Stop by the Answerblog to see what's new. If the AB-Staff introduces a new tool or improvement to the site. Say thanks. It's not a lot to ask.
8. Don't congratulate yourself. Your AB Friends are here for that. It's not really the norm to congratulate people until they reach Sage (Level 50) too.
9. Watch your language and don't yell at people (post in ALL CAPS).
10. Got something "adult" to post? Do it in AB4Adults please.
That's all I can think of for now. And everyone should read this http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/1919455
by KevinW42 on July 18th, 2007
DON'T USE ALL CAPS AND MULTIPLE PUNCTUATION MARKS!?!?!?!
use goood splling grmr
Ignore trolls and other downratings.
If you don't know don't answer.
Ask questions in question form. e.g. no, "How to make cookies?" or "My PS2 won't read the disk?"
Don't ask for points.
Don't be afraid to downrate, but try to leave a comment.
Use apostrophe's correctly <--(unlike that one).
Go ahead and be funny, but if it's a serious question include a helpful answer too.
If you are responding to someone's answer, post it in a comment with the "add a comment" button, not in another answer.
Don't include your answer in your question. e.g. "What's your favorite color (mine is blue)?"
Don't use ... instead of quotes. e.x. wrong: "What do you think of when you hear... How many boards would the Mongols hoard if the Mongol hoards got bored?" Correct: "What do you think of when you hear, 'How many boards would the Mongols hoard if the Mongol hoards got bored?'"
by Sweet T on July 22nd, 2008
Dont whine about points, you cant do anything with them.
Dont ask if you are pregnant, we dont know.
******Do try to have a good time, learn some things, share some things, and teach some things.
by I love my baby on July 18th, 2007
This is an excellent question. Don't argue over a stupid question, more than likly it will be a troll looking for a rise. Its okay to give some humor but it should be done in the right catagories,
by Galeanda on July 22nd, 2008
Do not post in all capitols.
Don't take everything personally. Other people can't see your face, can't hear your voice inflections. It isn't all about you.
1-3 downrates don't make a troll, so don't go complaining about it. Downrates happen, get over it.
Do give points to every question you find worth answering.
Don't save your points for yourself. They aren't worthless unless used.
by Account Closed on May 11th, 2009
PawkaGuRu,
First of all, let me welcome you to Answerbag, we hope you enjoy your stay and we look forward to hearing what you have got to say.
There are a few members who have taken the time to post some good information on their profiles for new and old users to help them along the way.
I have some information on mine that you may be able to use. To get to a members profile all you need to do is click on their avatar and it will take you right to where you want to go.
by genius-bag on November 21st, 2008
yes. You must send chocolate and flowers to everyone
by Andy Is Wicked Married to Penal Colony on October 26th, 2008
Nope most of us are even housebroken :) Welcome to AB!
Here are a couple of links that you might find helpful:
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/1919455
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/305855
by Nova on October 26th, 2008
"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind!" -Dr. Seuss
We all look forward to answering your questions and reading your answers! Oh and one friendly tip, don't downrate people just because you don't agree with their opinion.. only use the downrating tool when someone is flat-out wrong or is being offensive/stupid!
Have fun on AB.. it is very addicting! :]
xoxoMiss Paradise
by Scrappy on October 26th, 2008
answer, ask and have fun. TROLLS love to DR you and so do people who dislike your questions..know that the DR's do NOT count against you. they do not lower your average. in case you are one that DRs please know that everyone will be able to tell that by looking at your % level which now stands at 100% on your ratings..if it's starts etching down in the lower 90's, people start getting cautious of answering questions and answers. We have CL's who are awesome and do everything they can to make this site run and stay family friendly. Don't spam, be nice, do not argue and you stay out of the Penalty Box. Always use the unsubscribe button if you feel the person wants to argue (and some do that is all they are here for)..have fun.
by Done. never again. on July 22nd, 2008
Don't try to start a fight. Stop calling eachother names! I can't believe how many seasoned members I've seen do that. The worst ones not to follow is giving mean, pointless answers to questions.
by tinybubbles is sitting on the carpet read on July 18th, 2007
just watch your language here on answerbag, don't swear,don't ask for points, respect everybody and there opinions,and just have a great time here.
by EL1 2 on May 25th, 2007
Thanks for the question.
Do:
- Be an active and engaging member of the community
- Ask many questions
- Answer with your opinions
- Comment a lot
- Have fun
- Use decent grammar, capitalization, etc.
Don't:
- Insult others
- Get into fights
- Be afraid to voice your opinion
- Down-rate others for personal reasons
- Get involved in land wars in Asia
by Go know thyself is THE RED QUEEN on October 26th, 2008
I found this place to be wonderful from the very moment I signed on. The moderators are all excellent and really care as opposed to some other bot sites where they just go by statistics or numbers and could care less about personal situations.
Everyone is helpful and most people are kind but even the people that are not, are more than likely just being honest.
I had only one bad experience on here and even that was no big deal.
Just dont pick fights and enjoy helping people and being helped by people. and you'll have hours of fun and laugh your head off with a great group of people.
by Lori K still ignores stalkers and trolls on July 22nd, 2008
Well, I'm still new and finding my way but it seems pretty straight forward. I try to answer without being too judgmental unless an opinion is asked for. I also try to keep a sense of humor with it all.
by bowlermommy07 on July 22nd, 2008
If you don't like an answer, don't rate it.
by BigDaddyBS on March 2nd, 2008
Here are some of my responses to AB questions:
Advice for Newbies?
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2386652
See http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2343017 for the basics.
What makes an ABer's username stick in your mind?
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2395662
What do I expect from other users on AB?
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2381006
Why are ABers so nice?
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2383192
Any ABers get annoying?
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2387053
On being yourself on AB -
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2386437
A good description of why the "NEW QUESTION" flag goes away, even if the answers are incorrect:
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2130884
And I'm sure I missed some good ones I answered.
OH... And when AB runs slow, don't hut the SUBMIT button on a new question more than once. It will submit the question more than once, and duplicate questions is an AB no-no. ;-)
by Frank Tank on July 18th, 2007
Don't be afraid to say what you really mean. Don't scrub your first answer just to be PC or nice.
by Patti jo on July 18th, 2007
Putting your Questions in the right Categories
by Gonzo on May 25th, 2007
Do:
-Give an honest answer to every question
-Voice your own opinion
-Rate helpful quesions/answers up and non-helpful q's/'a's down
-Have fun!! Have a laugh and a sense of humour.
Dont:
-Rate an answer down as a result of your personal opinion (trolling).
-Be racist or try to insult other baggers.
-Ask questions primarily for attention
-Ask people to give you points.
-Let people get away with sending you nasty/offensive/pointless comments on your answers.
Welcome. Im Dr Gonzo. Hallo.
by gtravels loves her life penguin on October 26th, 2008
Ask good questions.
Give good answers.
Join in comment threads so you get to know people and people get to know you.
Don't focus on points. If you focus on quality contributions, they'll come.
Don't worry about being downrated. It happens to everyone.
Stay away from negativity.
Stay away from drama.
Have a sense of humor.
Don't take the site too seriously.
Don't take yourself too seriously.
AND MOST OF ALL, HAVE FUN!!!!
Oh, and don't type in caps;)
by Mr n Mrs M... on October 26th, 2008
Just have fun babe!
WELCOME TO AB!!!
by Andy Is Wicked Married to Penal Colony on August 4th, 2008
This is from another answer, but it applies here too:
1. Don't start drama. Seriously, see the links. Very few people like it.
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/877950
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/861844
2. Be respectful. Contribute in a positive and meaningful way. If you disagree with another ABer, agree to disagree or debate in a civil manner. If you can't get along with somebody here--just avoid them. Don't look for a fight and don't be a hothead. Have a good attitude and you'll fit right in.
3. Dont be a Point Farmer :(
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/158512
4. Check for duplicates before you post a question. Just type your question into the search box to see if it already exists. Please no more Why is the sky blue? It makes all of AB groan simultaneously.
5. Rate answers to your questions. It's rude not to acknowledge answers to questions you ask. Even better if you leave some comments.
6. Retaliatory downrating isn't cool and it will earn you a trip to the Penalty Box: http://www.answerbag.com/c_view/5390
7. Stop by the Answerblog to see what's new. If the AB-Staff introduces a new tool or improvement to the site. Say thanks. It's not a lot to ask.
8. Don't congratulate yourself. Your AB Friends are here for that. It's not really the norm to congratulate people until they reach SAGE (Level 50) too.
9. Watch your language and don't yell at people (post in ALL CAPS).
10. Got something "adult" to post? Do it in AB4Adults please.
That's all I can think of for now.
And everyone should read this!!!!!
http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/1919455
by Done. never again. on August 3rd, 2008
Remember your comments and questions cannot be deleted, unless you ask a staff member to specifically do it for you, which isn't always a garuntee.
by Chris on August 3rd, 2008
Have fun, and try to keep it family friendly, make friends, and give good answers, as well as ask good questions.
by Chris on July 22nd, 2008
All I can say is have fun.
Contribute to the site.
Learn to walk away when that is appropriate,
and always remember, besides the terms of use, I havent been able to find a set of rules that wasnt made by another member... I hope this helps.
Good to see you buddy!
by Chosun One on August 3rd, 2007
Ask and answer at your own risk.
by Redhawk on May 25th, 2007
Understand that TROLLS do exist...they are generally happy to give out negative ratings for 1. no reason at all, 2. because they just don't like your answer/question and it conflicts with some personal belief of theirs, 3. they are sad and lonely and believe they can tippy toe around (vailed) and just poop on everyone, because NO ONE gave them any points today! 4. because they haven't figured out what Answer Bag is REALLY all about.....
Be sure you consider not just if you AGREE with someone, before you give or take points..but also does the answer address the question? Is it well written and easy to understand in addition to being accurate?
Could someone become injured, sick or dead if they actually took the advise given? (goes hand in hand with accuracy!)
Is the answer AN OPINION only...everyone has an opinion...just because I don't agree doesn't mean I have got to down rate an opinion that DIFFERS from mine! If I don't like it at all, I can make a comment, or better yet...GIVE AN ANSWER with MY opinion!
Have fun!
by BigDaddyBS on November 21st, 2008
The following is from my profile, under the "Answerbag Questions & Answers" heading:
How to behave on an internet forum (and/or AB, as the case may be) - http://www.videojug.com/.../...an-internet-forum and DON'T be and idiot like Brandon at http://www.theonion.com/.../...o_post_comment_on ;-)
Newbies/Noobies: NOTE: When AB runs slow, don't hit the SUBMIT button on a new question or answer more than once. It will submit the question more than once, and duplicate questions is an AB no-no. ;-)
ALSO, If you include a link in your answer, and include the http:// , make sure there's no punctuation immediately before or after the link (ie: "( http://www.example.com./ )", especially afterward. When AB makes it an actual link, it will "suck in" the punctuation marks. Make sure your link is surrounded by spaces. And don't just put something like "example.com". Make it a link.
Tips for AB Etiquette - http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2397758 (MY answer may include many of the following) . http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/3648659 . http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2383192 . http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2298271 , and http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2453557
The AB 10 Commandments - http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/173281 (read more than one... They're GOOD).
"Sins" on AB - http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2227769
Take "The AB Oath" - http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/416416
Top 5 DON'Ts of AB - http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/647547
NOTE: You should not congratulate yourself. That's what your AB Friends are here for. Also, it's not really normal to congratulate people until they reach Sage (Level 50).
How NOT to ask a question (note the disagreements in the comment threads of a couple of answers) - http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2615601 - AND how to point out (as gently as possible) the questioner's errors and explain things (see comment thread - I KNOW this was flagged as nonesense, but it DID make sense and stopped some bad feelings between some actually really nice ABers) - http://www.answerbag.com/a_view/2616062
For more information about various subjects, including a lot on AB, see my profile (Click my avatar or username to see my profile.)
by Barcaluv on November 21st, 2008
This has been asked before, but for sake of more people getting acquainted with the concept, here's a link:
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/305855
by Occams Electric Razor on October 26th, 2008
depends on how seriously you take things...but it's not all bad
by Olero on October 26th, 2008
No promises on the biting... just be respectful and don't take things to seriously...
by Gabby on October 26th, 2008
Learn to turn it off and go to bed. It's highly addictive and you find yourself not paying attention to other things. Welcome by the way.
by Sunshine on October 26th, 2008
I'm new too!!! Welcome!! I LOVE this site and I'm addicted already. The only thing that has irritated me is that some people LOVE to correct your spelling and such. Who cares?
by eric on August 3rd, 2008
Wear a helmet!
by LuckyLefty on August 3rd, 2008
if you havent grown up yet, this site will make you do just that
by Jen-Jen on August 3rd, 2008
I would give them the same advice that was given to me ..
http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/613126
Along with this link
http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-behave-on-an-internet-forum
by denise on May 25th, 2007
Don't be put off talking if someone is particularly nasty to you. Unfortunately, although most folk on here are really nice, funny and friendly. There are one or two who will shoot you down if they don't like your question or your answer. Just ignore it, get back out there with your questions and have fun. This is a great place to chat and you can have a good laugh and learn quite a lot at the same time. Good luck.
by Sheriff Raff -Answerhag on May 25th, 2007
don't take anything personal
by El Soupy spanish for the soupy on May 25th, 2007
have fun, and dont be a jerk
by allikatzpop on November 21st, 2008
Yes,Welcome to the Asylum we're all inmates here and we're loving every minute of it.Insanity and humor go hand in hand here...Rude answers are downrated or ignored altogether.Answers with humor and satire,often start conversations which can go for weeks..
by Scrappy on November 21st, 2008
Don't be stingy with your points. It's always proper to give points to people who answer your questions. Even though you can't buy anything with them, it's always a good incentive for people to continue to answer your questions. Some people will NOT answer your questions if they know you don't give points or follow up with comments. Points have no limit in giving YOu have no maximum amount you can give so give freely.
by NoTa LoKa on November 21st, 2008
dont write in all capital letters thats rude on here and most likely on every message board on the internet
by saffyanne on November 21st, 2008
That's a great quetion, Claire...my tips are try not to be too rude when answering something, and if you're disagreeing with something try to be respectful about it, that way you're more likely to keep your points.
by Bigessfour wears a Army COAT on October 27th, 2008
Do ask lots of questions and don't be disrespectful of others opinions.
by Monkey Donkey on October 26th, 2008
Hey Sunshine!
Well, welcome to us both! Oooh, spelling, eh? Okay, thanks for that! English or American? Vive le difference!
I know my eyes are hurting already! Take it easy.
by BigDaddyBS on August 3rd, 2008
All of my tips are in my profile - http://www.answerbag.com/profile/?id=174918 (Scroll down to "Answerbag Questions & Answers")
by R_Berue on August 3rd, 2008
Hi top54u!
Welcome to AnswerBag! This IS THE BEST Q&A site on the web!
You get points for your Qs. Without taking anything away from you or your rating, you are expected to give points for our answers. All you have to do is click your mouse on "+" sign or "-" sign above the "Rate Answer".
I HOPE you enjoy your time on AB.
By the way, when there are times when you might be a little bored or you want a change of pace, PLEASE visit the "Sillyville Club". Simply type s-i-l-l-y-v-i-l-l-e in the box next to the blue "GO" button.
Click on the "GO" button and you'll be in Sillyville!
Very Truly Yours,
Ron Berue
Yes, that's my real last name!
"HE Official Spokesman of Sillyville"
e-mailing answer bag pages?
by C_Anglin on June 15th, 2010
| 1 person likes this
When AB members change their names without notice I think they owe it to those on their "Friends" list to notify them. What do you think?
by RosieGHM Jetpacker on January 15th, 2011
| 1 person likes this
Is it impolite to not reply to a routine thank you?
by e63a6 on July 8th, 2010
| 1 person likes this
Why am I not allowed to answer comments to my own question even though I am not in penalty box? More people have this problem?
by bassie on August 17th, 2010
| 1 person likes this
How can I answer your question within the hour and get voted the best answer?
.
by einsteinwasright0116 on May 17th, 2011
| 1 person likes this
You're reading Am new to this site. Can anyone let me know if there is a certain etiquette I should follow? Do’s and don’ts etc.
- which can also be phrased in the following ways:
Your favorite Q&A site is on Facebook! Become a fan to connect with the ever-growing community of Answerbaggers, share your thoughts and find out what Answerbag's up to next!
Comments
snarky eh? you're so cool jodie.
by ericscott on July 18th, 2007
She is the coolest.
by unknown on July 18th, 2007
yeah ! ...
I think she is one of the most polite top contributor .
Thank You Jodie
by jinalkothari on March 24th, 2008
Thank you.
by Jodie44 on March 25th, 2008
Those are great suggestions. You really are helpful. =0)
by FireFly on April 6th, 2008
I plead Guilty to all the above. Other than the asking for points one,that is........Plus 6......."M.C.S." see I did it again...........Take care Jodie my FRIEND.........M.C.S.
by - M.C.S. - Dave on April 7th, 2008