Lessons in netiquette.

etiquette: (ET-i-kit) the rules and manners of proper social behavior.

the Net: a network of computers connected through phone lines and satellites.

netiquette: the rules and manners of proper online behavior.

When you go online, it may seem like you're just dealing with computers. But often you're dealing directly with people--meeting them in chat rooms, news groups, forums, and one-on-one through e-mail.

Just like in real life when you are talking to someone F2F (cyberspeak for "face to face"), there are certain rules that you should follow when you're communicating online. These rules are known as "netiquette."

* Always be polite. Both in the real world and in cyberspace, no one likes a rude person. This means don't say mean or nasty things. This means don't insult people. This means don't shout. Shouting on the Net? You bet. Whenever you use all capital letters, IT MEANS YOU ARE SHOUTING. So don't. If you want to make friends on the Net, be nice.

* Don't Hassle or Bug People. Just because you disagree with or get mad at someone on the Net, don't attack them. That type of behavior is called flaming, and Net surfers don't like it. So don't be a flamer. Harassing someone on the Net can get you kicked off an online service and may even result in you being charged with a crime.

* Send Slow, Respond Quick. Think twice before you send. It's so quick and easy to send messages online that you might say something that you'll regret later. Slow down and make sure you really want to say it. On the other hand, when someone e-mails you, get back to them as quickly as possible. It's considered bad behavior to let e-mail sit for too long.

* Keep It Simple. Long-winded messages are out. Short messages are in. So are abbreviations, like FYI (for your information), NBD (no big deal), and BFN (bye for now). Also, boldface or underlined type can be hard to read, so avoid using them. Keep your type style basic, and your message short and sweet.

J.P. Faber, Senior Editor www.smartkid.com The Webzine for Parents