Computer Concepts in Action ©2009

Introduction:
Learn the rules of netiquette.

Directions:
Read the information below and apply what you learn to answer the questions.
Check your work carefully, and click Submit.

Netiquette:
Netiquette is a term that describes good manners in electronic communications, such as e-mail, instant messaging, and chat rooms. Netiquette can help communication flow more efficiently and help avoid misunderstandings. Here are some suggestions for good e-mail netiquette. You can apply the principles to any electronic communication.

PROFESSIONAL E-MAIL DOs

• Follow the same formatting guidelines as for a traditional letter. Include a salutation, check your spelling, and use good grammar.
• Be brief and direct.
• Use the correct Reply, Reply All, CC, BCC, and Forwarding options so e-mail is not sent to the wrong person.
• Know your school's policies and conventions for appropriate e-mail use.
• Remember that once you send e-mail you cannot get it back and that it can be quickly forwarded to many people.
• Some documents, such as some legal documents, cannot be sent electronically and require a signature. In this case, use traditional delivery methods, such as the post office, messenger, or FedEx.

PROFESSIONAL E-MAIL DON'Ts

• Avoid informal language, such as slang and sarcasm. It is easy to misinterpret on a computer screen.
• Avoid emoticons, jokes, and capital letters. One common mistake is to use all capital letters to emphasize a point, but this can look like SHOUTING.
• Avoid responding too quickly, especially in anger or frustration.
• Avoid forwarding jokes, junk mail (spam), hoaxes, and chain letters that add to inbox overflow.
• Do not lie or deliberately pass along bad information in a way that causes harm to a person or company. This is called libel, and it is illegal.

Assessment Questions

1			Why is it important to correctly use the correct Reply, Reply All, CC, BCC, and Forwarding options?
2			Why is it a bad idea to use capital letters to emphasize a point in an e-mail?
3			What are three types of electronic communication that contribute to inbox overflow?
4			If you spread information around in an e-mail that harms a person or an organization, but it is true, it is gossip. If you spread information that harms a person or an organization and it is false, it is ____.