Chat Room Etiquette (Chatiquette)

Just as in real life, there are some things that you do and some things that you don't do in chatting. If you are relatively new to chatting, reading the following will help you understand the unwritten rules or "etiquette" of chat, and help you to communicate with others.

Don't talk in CAPITAL LETTERS
In a chatroom, using a lot of CAPITALS or UPPER CASE is seen as shouting. Many people find it annoying when a user types entirely in capitals.

Don't join a chatroom and then leave without saying something
It is considered impolite to enter a chatroom and then leave without saying something.

Don't idle or lurk in a chatroom
When you are in a chatroom, do take part in the conversation. If you are going to be away from your computer for a short time, tell the other users. If you are a beginner, be polite and say something like, "I am new to chatting. Can I watch quietly for a few minutes?"

Be patient
Try to be patient and wait if a user is slow to respond to you during a conversation. Remember that this is a person and they may have other things to do at the same time.

Don't use excessive colours/ASCII art
Don't use large multi-line ASCII art or excessive colours. In some chatrooms it could be considered a flood and you might be kicked out.

In smaller chatrooms, ask if you are welcome
When you enter a chatroom that has only a few users, ask if it is a private chatroom, and if you are welcome there.

Be friendly. Be polite. Be considerate
Remember that these are real people you are chatting with. They may have different opinions to you and come from very different cultures. Treat them properly and respect their opinions, and they will treat you the same.