How do you respectfully engage in programming communities?

2 Follow the etiquette

Once you have chosen a community, you should familiarize yourself with its etiquette. This means the unwritten rules and norms that govern how members communicate and behave. For example, some communities may expect you to introduce yourself, use proper grammar and spelling, cite your sources, format your code, or avoid certain topics or words. Other communities may be more relaxed or tolerant about these aspects. You should respect the etiquette of each community and avoid doing anything that may offend, annoy, or disrupt other members.

3 Ask and answer questions

One of the main benefits of programming communities is that you can ask and answer questions. This can help you learn new skills, solve problems, or get feedback. However, you should also be respectful when you do so. For example, when you ask a question, you should do some research first, provide enough context and details, use a clear and descriptive title, and be polite and grateful. When you answer a question, you should be helpful, accurate, and constructive, and avoid being rude, arrogant, or dismissive.

5 Learn and grow

The ultimate benefit of programming communities is that you can learn and grow as a programmer. This means that you can expand your horizons, discover new ideas, challenge yourself, or find inspiration. However, you should also be respectful when you do so. For example, you should be humble, curious, and willing to learn from others, regardless of their level or background. You should also be respectful of diversity, difference, and opinion, and avoid being judgmental, biased, or intolerant.

6 Enjoy and have fun

Finally, you should enjoy and have fun when you engage in programming communities. This means that you can make friends, network, or socialize with other programmers who share your passion. However, you should also be respectful when you do so. For example, you should be friendly, supportive, and positive, and avoid being hostile, aggressive, or negative. You should also respect the boundaries, privacy, and preferences of other members, and avoid being intrusive, spammy, or creepy.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?