In case of online communication, the written word says it all. You, therefore, have to be cautious of what you write and how you write it. And this is where online etiquette, or netiquette, helps — it helps prevent undue attention from hackers or cyber bullies.

Guidelines for Good Netiquette

Apply these guidelines when you are in a conversation over the Net:

• Apply the golden rule: Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

• Do not be rude: There is a person on the other end of the message.

• Avoid offensive language: Be aware who you are chatting with and use appropriate good language.

• Forget and forgive: Be forgiving of other people's errors.

• Stay calm: Always maintain your cool, especially if someone insults you or you think they have

• Avoid using ALL CAPS: In online conversations, it is popularly perceived as "yelling" and many find it annoying.
  
  Example: I REALLY DON’T WANT TO WATCH THAT MOVIE!
  Even though you wrote it to emphasise your point, it seems that you are arguing and trying to say your opinion aloud.

• Protect your identity: Use your online name or nickname consistently; sign all messages with it. Avoid using your full name and protect your real identity.
  
  Example: Never sign off as Riya Natarajan, if you use RN_01 as your screen name. It is advisable to avoid using your full name.

• Avoid forwarding mails: Do not send or forward junk e-mail or spam.

• Stay clear of argument: Always stay out of ongoing, emotional arguments.

• Do a spell-check: Always check your spellings; be concise, and keep messages short.

• Observe chat discipline: When participating in chat rooms, avoid interrupting others and never digress from the topic of conversation.

• Adopt good behavior: Follow the same rules of good behavior that you would in real life.

• Use emoticons: At times, messages can be interpreted inappropriately. Emoticons help communicate humor and sarcasm, so be aware of common online acronyms.