These are informal guidelines, not rules. Some rules are included in this list, however, for reference purposes.
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The core mission of the SDMB is to fight ignorance and make wisecracks. (Entertaining wisecracks, that is.) Users are not obliged to pursue both practices. They should, however, strive to master at least one of them.
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Spreading ignorance contravenes the board’s core mission and is frowned upon.
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Usenet acronyms and certain behavioral patterns peculiar to the SDMB are perfectly acceptable. (Hi Opal!).
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Irony, at times, is used as a tool to advance the core mission, partly by sharpening the critical facilities of the unwary reader.
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Do not post to GQ or GD unless you believe you have something to say.
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It is best not to start more than one thread per day.
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But it is also best not to start another thread within one devoted to a different (albeit related) topic.
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Strive to learn the distinction between “brief side-point” and “contentious hijack”.
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Guideline #7 overrides guideline #6.
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Many circumstances override guideline #6. But not all circumstances.
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If you post a thread or a question, be prepared to moderate it. At the same time, don’t feel obliged to make a content-less response. (Whether a brief “thank-you” is called for is a matter of controversy.)
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Do not be a jerk.
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Do not be a jerk. However, spirited debate is acceptable in the proper forums. Do not be a jerk.
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You can attack ideas in GD. You cannot, however, directly attack a poster in GD.
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Personality issues should be taken to the pit.
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The scope for acceptable personal attacks on a poster within the pit is not boundless.
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The moderator is your friend.
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The moderator is your god.
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Do not mess with the moderator.
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Do not be a jerk.
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If the system freezes, do not hit “submit” again. In all likelihood, you will double-post. Fight your gut inclinations.
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Composing a post in Word is encouraged.
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Spelling mistakes and grammatical errors are acceptable, though they make you look like an idiot.
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Preview is your friend.
Comments, additions and haiku are welcome, as appropriate.