[dgplug-users] IRC Etiquettes

[Vipul Bansal]

Today was my first class at dgplug IRC. The idea of teaching through IRC
channel is new, intriguing and applaudable.
But not everyone is adept to IRC. And it was evident with every user
pouring in, cutting lines and doing things that go against the attitude of
the service thereby creating a confusion as to who wants to say what?

And that is OK. Even I am new to IRC and had trouble getting a handshake.
But I searched on the topic and learnt how to use this incredible service.
Its open source, what's the harm in sharing?

1. Registering-
---- Open the IRC chat client you use.
---- Choose a nickname.
---- Give your full name.
---- Select a network. In this case Freenode.
---- Click connect.
---- In the next window that comes up, select 'Join this channel' option
and type #dgplug.
---- Click connect.
---- When the chat window opens, click on Freenode on left side pane.
---- Type /msg NickServ register (your_password) (your_email)
---- Don't include brackets ofcourse
---- After this check your email you provided for a line of code.
---- Do as it says.
---- Once typed correctly your nick is now protected for you.
---- Everytime you open your chat client click on freenode this time to
verify yourself.
---- Type /msg NickServ indentify (your_password)
---- Once verified you are good to continue.

2. Replying-
---- Different people reply in different ways.
---- Some use nick: ; some use nick, ; some @nick
---- All are correct since the bot is not looking for the special
characters but only the nick name.
---- To point anybody you just need to include his/her nick.
---- But the standard form rather convention is ( nick, your message ).

3. Question-
---- For asking questions raise your hands using ' ! ' without quotes
ofcourse.
---- The exclamation sign causes the bot (batul here) to automatically note
your nick in the queue.
---- When the op instructs the bot 'next', bot automatically calls the
person in queue.
---- Always prepare your turn by typing your question in the input box as
soon as you raise your hand.
---- Hit Enter/Return as soon as the bot calls your nick and wait for the
answer.

4. Personal Message-
---- Sometimes you might want to 'personal message' somebody.
---- Type /msg nick your message
---- NOTE: Before PMing someone ask his/her permission.
---- DO NOT PM THE OP.

5. Quitting-
---- When you want to quit in the middle of the session just type /quit
---- You will be automatically disconnected.

6. Conversation Etiquettes-
---- Do not share your opinions when the op is speaking.
---- Compile all your questions and ask during QA session or raise your
hand.
---- Do not ask silly questions in between. Try to find the answers on
Google first.
---- Do not use abusive language.
---- Use full form of words like 'you' for 'u' and 'I am' for 'm'
---- Do not accept files from anybody. It might contain some malicious code.
---- Do not give out your personal information.
---- Do not use CAPS.
---- Be a good listener. First observe what is happening, then speak.
---- Once you ask something wait for the person to answer. Do not repeat
unnecessarily.

So given above is a list of netiquettes (not exhaustive) you should absorb
right now to maintain a respect for yourself in the community or be kicked
out!

-Vipul Bansal