etiquette is the rules that govern behavior in society with the arrival of the internet Society expanded to connect people all around the world but connecting through a keyboard in semi-anonymity makes it easy to forget one's manners thus arose the concept of netiquette netiquette is etiquette for the internet these are generally agreed upon rules for respectful and appropriate communication across the internet most websites forums and social media have their own rules as well as someone to monitor compliance with those rules and eject those who break them if you're not sure what is appropriate and what's not here are 12 netiquette rules to guide your online Behavior 1. be as polite online as you would be in person if you wouldn't insult someone to their face or provoke or threaten them don't do it online 2. think before you post a screenshot or copy of what you say can be made faster than you can delete that post as the saying goes once on the internet always on the internet three maintain self-control don't be rude about a topic or to someone who disagrees with you you can't go wrong if you stay respectful polite and professional 4.
read an entire post and its comments before asking questions or posting answers someone already may have asked or answered it 5. be your own grammar police check your spelling punctuation and grammar there are even apps that do it for you it not only makes you look good but helps keep your meaning clear 6. respect others privacy use the blind carbon copy recipient line to keep email addresses private don't forward information without first asking permission before sharing photos or videos Ask persons in them if you may lastly don't type in any old name and email address when signing up for anything just because you don't want annoying marketing emails doesn't mean the person whose name you typed wants them either 7.
be quick to make your point whether an email texts or posts this shows respect for others time and ability to digest your information when they may be overwhelmed with information already eight Overlook mistakes whether they be spelling errors inane questions or opinions that have you shaking your head it's best to ignore mistakes instead of react to them nine don't abuse your power if you're a moderator or system admin you have the technical power to obtain information that is private but don't betray the trust others have placed in you it's just not ethical 10. avoid flame Wars flame Wars are discussions and chats that heat up into personal attacks and criticism when this happens simply leave the discussion insults and threats online can have legal repercussions 11. know your cyberspace if you're on a forum or social media platform that's unfamiliar educate yourself on how things are done around there check out how people communicate with one another and follow their lead 12.