NLM Netiquette

In addition to the DO and DO NOTs below, NLM suggests that before posting, new members read the list for a few days and review some of the archives. In this manner, the new subscriber can better understand the list's scope and observe the netiquette of the list.

• DO keep postings on the specified discussion topics of that particular list.
  
  
• DO search the list archives prior to posting a question to prevent repeat questions.
  
  
• DO identify yourself. Include your name and institution, if appropriate.
  
  
• DO use descriptive subject lines.
  
  
• DO send messages in plain text only as some subscriber's email systems cannot handle rich-text or HTML mail.
  
  
• DO keep your messages brief when posting to a list.
  
  
• DO quote relevant parts of the message when responding to a message, but DO NOT resend the entire original message.
  
  
• DO be careful when using humor in your messages.
  
  
• DO NOT be critical of other's queries posted to the list. Send a private message and gently make suggestions for future postings, if appropriate.
  
  
• DO NOT use all upper case letters when writing - this is seen as shouting.
  
  
• DO NOT post messages containing any defamatory, abusive, profane, or offensive language, or post illegal material.
  
  
• DO NOT post any materials protected by copyright without the permission of the copyright owner.
  
  
• DO NOT "flame" individuals on the list. Conflict should be resolved in personal e-mails.
  
  
• DO NOT generate vacation 'auto-reply' to the list. DO use the 'nomail' command or set up a local email filter to prevent filling up fellow subscribers' mailboxes with unwanted auto-reply messages when you are out of the office.
  
  
• DO NOT post test messages to the list. Contact the list owner for assistance, if you have a problem posting.
  
  
• DO NOT send messages with little or no meaningful content, such as "I agree!", to the entire list . Send this type of reply to the sender of the original posting.

Last reviewed: 16 June 2008
Last updated: 01 July 2002
First published: 01 July 2002
Metadata| Permanence level: Permanence Not Guaranteed