Some more observations on list etiquette (was Comments about Linux/Ubuntu)

[Pete Ryland]

On Wed, Apr 12, 2006 at 09:18:58AM +0100, Matthew East wrote:
> A general rule: it isn't always necessary to reply to every mail in a
> thread.

Well, on certain types of lists, like sounder, it can indeed be very easy
for threads to run away and even become a little heated.  I don't know how
many times I've fallen victim to this due to my own immaturity.  A little
while ago, I decided to try to abide by the following general rules of
thumb:

1. Lists send mail to lots of people, so if I can save each reader a few
seconds per mail, it's worth a few minutes of my time.  This can be done by:
  a. Appropriate quoting, etc - everything already mentioned
  b. Writing in Clear, Concise and Precise language
  c. Not re-iterating previous statements
  d. Reducing the mail to at most 50 lines

2. To avoid long meaningless threads, send only one mail per thread, stating
my thoughts, then allow others to do likewise without arguing or "me
too"ing.  The readers already know what I think.  However, like the other
rules, there are obvious exceptions, like bug reporting followups.

3. Always assume that the author of other mails is happy and calm, and never
angry or argumentative.  If it sounds like they were, consider that they may
have been trying to be sarcastic.

4. After writing the mail, but before sending, do something else for 5
minutes, then re-read the mail thinking about the guidelines.  Don't send it
if it doesn't need to be sent.  If it must be sent, a private reply might be
more appropriate.

My only hope is that I have the strength to follow these guidelines myself!

Pete