In the relatively few years since computer-mediated communication has been generally available, a number of conventions have been developed by and for users. These conventions are usually referred to as "netiquette," since they are primarily rules of polite behavior comparable to etiquette. A failure to observe them can subject the unfortunate user to misunderstanding, or even scorn.

Email Etiquette

• Always include the subject of your message in the subject line.
• Keep messages relatively short and to the point. Messages longer than two screens may not get read. If you need to write a longer message, it is polite to alert your readers by adding a parenthetical (long) to the subject line.
• If you have more than one topic to write about, send separate messages.
• Do not use the salutations and closings conventional for print letters (eg. "Dear Mary," or "Sincerely yours").
• Use asterisks (*) before and after a word to give it emphasis.
• Do not write on capital letters. This is interpreted as shouting and is considered impolite.
• Be careful about using sarcasm or irony. Readers can't see your facial expressions or hear your tone of voice. Statements that you intend as jokes can be taken seriously by others.
• It is conventional to signal jokes by using an "emoticon" such as :-). Cluttering a message with emoticons, however, begins to look like an affectation.
• Strive for clarity. Rule of thumb: If it can be misunderstood, it will be.
• If you use a signature file, keep it short. Elaborate signatures with multiple addresses, lengthy quotations, and/or ASCII artwork just take up space in your recipients' mailboxes.
• It is impolite (and probably unethical) to forward someone's email messages to another person without the author's permission.
• On the other hand, keep in mind that the person you write to might forward your message. Don't write something that could get you in trouble if it goes beyond the intended audience.
• Think before you post a message. A message written in anger or haste will probably be regretted later.
• When you recognize you've sent a message you shouldn't have, send a retraction/apology immediately.
• Avoid flame wars. Angry responses to messages are called flames, and they usually provoke flames in response. Resist the temptation. If you inadvertently offend, apologize.
• Proofread. Early email programs did not allow users to backspace in order to edit their work, and everyone understood that typing errors would occur. This is no longer the case, and errors now look like carelessness.
• When responding to a previous post, include the relevant parts of the original message. That way it will be clear what you are responding to. Do not, however, reproduce the entire message. Use the delete key.
• Send copies only when necessary. The cc function makes it easy to send a single message to many recipients. Don't clutter other people's mailboxes with messages they don't need to see.

System Etiquette

Netiquette conventions help guide the content of email messages. In addition, good network behavior calls for respect for the system which provides internet access. Keep your mailbox under control. Delete all messages you are done with. If you need to save them, move them to a folder. And protect both your own mailbox and system security by logging out when you are away from your computer.