EvaGeeks Forum Rules and Guidelines: Difference between revisions

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Here you will find a rundown of the rules and regulations of the EvaGeeks Forum. Know them, and know them well. Observation of the classic work [http://www.tesuji.org/videos/posting.swf Posting and You] is also considered a prerequisite to posting.
Here you will find a rundown of the rules and regulations of the EvaGeeks Forum. Know them, and know them well. Observation of the classic work [http://www.tesuji.org/videos/posting.swf Posting and You] is also considered a prerequisite to posting.


===Purpose===
==Purpose==
:The purpose of the EvaGeeks Forum is to provide ''Evangelion'' fans with a pleasant, mature, and productive atmosphere for the discussion of the show and related topics. The forum also serves as an extension of the EvaGeek site's content and services.


===Members===
===<font color=purple>Evangelion unites us all. Better than the Olympics.</font>===
:*All members should be fully acquainted with and adhere to the rules and guidelines set by the board staff. Failure to comply will result in warnings; failure to heed warnings will result in a temporary or permanent banning depending on the severity of the offense(s).  


:*Courtesy towards other members and the staff is expected. If you have an issue with another forum member, do not send them snide or abusive PMs; a mod or admin should be consulted in the event that things cannot be resolved calmly.  
<font color=#ff5f00>'''The purpose of the EvaGeeks Forum is to provide ''Evangelion'' fans with a pleasant, mature, and productive atmosphere for the discussion of the show and related topics. The forum also serves as an extension of the EvaGeeks site's content and services.''' </font>


:*"Sassing" or being a nuisance to the staff is not permitted under any circumstances. (This does not, however, preclude the possibility of joking around. See '''Flaming''' under [[#Posting|Posting]].)
===<font color=green>Enjoy Evangelion and let others enjoy Evangelion!</font>===


:*New members should not "introduce" themselves in their first posts. Please use the [http://evageeks.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2 Welcome Thread] for this purpose.
==Rules==


:*Members should have only '''one''' account. We don't care if you have fourteen different Internet aliases altogether plus a crime-fighting alter-ego in real life -- but you only get one "face" at EGF. Extra accounts will be deleted, and their creators will face a warning or a ban.
===<font color=red>Zeroth Rule: Don’t be a jerk.</font>===
::*Temporarily banned members attempting to subvert their bans by creating multiple accounts will be '''permanently''' banned from the forum.


===Staff===
===Be a good forum user in general.===


:*The board staff are in charge of the forum's upkeep, establishing the rules and regulations, and making other administrative decisions. Administrators and moderators maintain order in the forum and ensure that the members observe the rules of conduct. '''''If you are not an admin or mod, do not pretend to be one.'''''
*Have fun and respect others' right to have fun too!
*Read and understand these rules.  If you have a question about something, ask!
*Listen to the staff. We're just trying to keep the peace so giving us attitude won't help you much.
*If you are temporarily banned, attempting to circumvent it will result in a '''permanent''' ban.
*Only create one account per user.  No sockpuppet theater, thanks.
*Don’t abuse the private messaging system to harass or bully others.
*If you have a problem with someone that you can’t solve yourself, use the "report" button or [https://forum.evageeks.org/memberlist.php?mode=team contact the staff].


:*'''Thou shalt not make the Mods and Admins do their job. They want to have fun and shoot the shit about Eva like everyone else. When, through trolling, spamming, flaming, and other misbehavior, you force them to put on their mod hats, they will quite understandably be cranky. So please stay civil and on-topic.'''
===Present yourself well.===


:*A list of the current staff may be found listed on the [http://forum.evageeks.org/groupcp.php?g=7 Board Staff] user group.
*Choose a user name that is unique, memorable and inoffensive.
*Avatar images are limited to 125x125px and 30kb in size.
*Avoid avatars that are unnecessarily inflammatory, offensive, lewd, distracting or simply in poor taste.
*Try not to use an avatar that is overly similar to one already in use by another active member.
*Keep your signature small and non-distracting.  No bbc code (other than links) or images.
*Use common sense in posting a personal picture or in making other contact options available.
*Use [https://forum.evageeks.org/thread/19115/Official-Hello-Goodbye-Thread/ the "Hello and Goodbye" thread] to make an introduction, not a new thread.


===Posting===
===Post in a form that we can actually read.===


:'''A. <u>Language</u>''':
*We use conversational English here, not chan-speak, 133t or any other such nonsense.
::Posts shall be composed in ''English''.
*Use of other languages has no place here unless discussing translation.
::*Slang, abbreviations, acronyms, 1337, AIMspeak, chanspeak/“talking in memes”, etc., ''may not be habitual style''. Occasional uses — e.g., for humorous effect in the proper context — are fine.
*Compose your thoughts as briefly as you can and in a well-structured form. Use spellchecker.
::*There will be limited tolerance for “Bad English”. Users are expected to employ proper grammar: sentences, paragraphs, punctuation, capitalization, and so forth.  
*Use special formatting like bold, italics, colored text or nonstandard font sizes sparingly.
:::* The use of spell-checking is thoroughly encouraged. (This function is automatically furnished by the [http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/ Firefox browser].)
*'''<span style="color:#ff0000">Boldred'''</span> and '''<span style="color:#008000"> boldgreen</span>''' text is reserved for official staff use (and red only for something serious).
::*Make sure that your posts are coherent and understandable. Others should not be required to perform “translation” when reading.
*Don’t leave broken bbc code tags in your posts. Preview before you submit!
::*Posts should be as concise as possible. In the majority of cases, “less is more”.  
:::*As an extension of this, make an attempt not to post prolonged “rants” that require considerable sifting to find the actual point, if there is any.  
::*This is an English language forum, so the use of other language should be kept to a minimum. Do not start having conversations with other users in Spanish, German, Russian, Esperanto, etc.
:::*A special exception is made for Japanese, due to ''Evangelion''’s status as a Japanese work. Many users have at least some degree of familiarity with the language, and some are in the process of actively learning it, so 日本語 <small>(“Japanese”)</small> does get batted around here and there. This is fine, although it should not be done to excess, and it is considered a general courtesy to provide a translation of what you are saying. All-out conversations in Japanese are to be restricted to relevant threads in the Off-Topic subforum.  


:'''B. <u>Formatting</u>''':
===Actively contribute to threads.===
::*Avoid using altered font (color, style, size) unless it serves a purpose. Purely functional formatting includes ''italic'', '''bold''', and <u>underline</u>; larger text for headings; smaller text for “footnotes”, “postscripts”, or “asides”; coloring text that needs to stand out; and so forth. It is also permissible to occasionally format font for mere “effect”, e.g., using teeny-weeny font to emulate “whispering”. However, the gratuitous use of enormous text or making text colored for no discernible reason, among other things, is inappropriate.
::*Formatted text shall '''not''' be permitted to serve as one’s “default” (e.g., <font color="blue">making the text of every post blue</font>).
::*<font color="red">'''Bold red text may only be used by the moderation staff.'''</font>
::*Broken bbcode tags are an eyesore. ''Make sure you employ them properly''. Preview your posts before hitting Submit!


:'''C. <u>Quoting</u>''':
*Stick to the topic.  Forum staff may split out worthwhile tangents, but try not to start them.
::*'''DO NOT QUOTE ENTIRE POSTS.''' Edit them down to ''the part(s) you are actually replying to''.
*Avoid overly chatty conversations. This is a forum, not a chat room.
::* Nested quotes (quotes within quotes within...) are only to be used if required to provide context for a reply.  
*Don't just drop a link, share your thoughts and explain why we should care about it.
::* Embedded image(s) from the original post(s) must be edited out or modified to text links (i.e., with [url] tags or by simply removing the [img] tags) — or even to a simple description of the image — unless there is a ''concrete reason'' to re-embed the image(s). (For example, if the image was posted on a previous page of the thread.)
*Use the edit button if you need to add to a prior post rather than double posting.
::* ''Use the quote tags properly.'' Broken [quote] tags get ugly even faster than broken formatting tags. Again, '''use the Preview function''' to ensure that everything looks as it should!
*Avoid prolonged, heated arguments that shut down the rest of the thread (aka bumpercars).
::* Make sure quotes are ascribed to the right person(s).
*When in a disagreement, stick to the points, not the people making them.
*Trolls are not welcome here. If you’re here just for the lulz, don’t bother.
*The same goes for spammers or ads.  This is a forum, not a billboard.
*Pointless nonsense like “inb4lock” or “First” is strongly discouraged.
*Don’t be a killjoy. Avoid monotonous negative posting or nihilism baiting.
*If you aren't a mod don't act like it.  Just PM a staff member to address the issue.


::::'''If you are unfamiliar with the ways of bbcode, please take the time to learn it: [http://www.phpbb.com/community/faq.php?mode=bbcode A Simple Run-Down]'''
===Use quotes properly.===


:'''D. <u>Double-Posting</u>''':
*Don’t just quote an entire post.  Trim it down to the relevant bit you’re addressing.
::'''DON'T'''. The '''Edit''' button is your friend. Create a new post to bump the thread if you must, but then copy the text of the previous post into the new one, and use the little '''X''' button to delete the old one.  
*Stick to the main points. Don’t respond line-by-line to every little thing said (aka omnislashing).
*If you have nothing to add other than agreement just say so, don’t quote it again.
*Avoid using nested quotes unless absolutely necessary for context.
*Make sure your quotes are properly attributed to the correct poster.


:: Double-posts are, however, okay if you're bumping a thread after a sizable time gap and you just so happened to be the last person to post in it.
===Use images properly.===


:'''E1. <u>Off-Topic Posts</u>''':
*Images can add a lot to a post, but don’t include them without reason.
::While some amount of off-topic posting is expected, it should be kept to the bare minimum. The staff should not have to constantly remind members to “Stay on topic, bitches.” In cases where members are not simply engaging in spam (see below), they should redirect communications to more appropriate venues: ''See'' '''Tangents''' in the [[#threads|Threads]] section.
*Replying primarily with an image is discouraged.  Use words, not macros or reaction faces.
*Images with a large filesize should be linked, not embedded. Preferably with a thumbnail.
*Avoid direct links (hotlinking).  Host images on your own site or use a dedicated service.
*When posting several photos you should use a spoiler and label it appropriately.
*Some specifically image-heavy threads have their own special rules.


:'''E2. <u>Spam</u>''':
===Create new threads and navigate older ones with care.===
::A post that doesn’t advance the topic of discussion or contribute in some way is spam. That is to say, junk. Noise. Pointless filler. This should also be avoided as much as possible, and will result in warnings in extreme cases.


::'''Corollary 1.''' ''The forum is not a chat room.''
*Before making a new thread, [https://forum.evageeks.org/search.php search to see if a thread already exists on the topic].
::'''Corollary 2.''' ''The forum is not 4chan.''
*Bumping an older thread with relevant information or active contribution is encouraged.
*Bumping a bunch of older threads just because you read them is not.
*Don't make a new thread to replace one that was just locked.  It was locked for a reason.
*If you wish to make a new thread, make sure you do so in the proper subforum for the topic.
*Give your new thread a name that makes it clear at a glance what it is about.
*Polls are turned off for a reason. Don’t make pointless threads like that.


:'''E2b. <u>Over-Posting</u>''':
===Have some common sense and basic human decency.===
::This behavior involves the hyperactive posting of trivial replies -- a form of spam -- to threads (e.g., "yeah, that's what I think, too". Newcomers susceptible to this usually engage in prolific thread necromancy, as well, which is '''not''' appropriate (for permissible forms, see '''[[#Threads|Threads]]'''). Over-posting generates far more noise than signal. Short-term, it is an annoyance in bad form; as a chronic habit, it works to the detriment of the forum as a whole.


:::''Off-topic posts and spam are not necessarily the same thing, although there is a large area of overlap.''
*Don’t ask for or provide links to illegally hosted copyrighted material.
*The same goes for bootleg merchandise or anything plagiarized.
*The same also goes for pornography.  Get your doujins elsewhere.
*Posting explicit images or content is permitted only when relevant to a legitimate topic.
*Don’t use the forum to plan, arrange, or enact any activities that are against the law.


:'''F. <u>Swearing</u>''':
===Be mindful of spoilers.===
::”We're all grown-ups here”, so casual cursing is allowed. However, be sensible about it. If, for example, you “drop the F-bomb” on other members (“fuck you”, “fuck off”) or use it pervasively (always put the word “fucking” in front of an adjective), that is not sensible use.  


:'''G. <u>Flaming</u>''':
*The series, movie, and manga are all considered universally ‘open’ for spoilers at this point.
::Flaming should not be done gratuitously. You are permitted to poke fun at someone provided that it is made obvious that the comment is in good fun. Participation in a flame thread/war will not be tolerated and will result in consequences, regardless of who started it.  
*Newer content is considered ‘closed’ until it has been made legally available in the US.
*Users are expected to keep ‘closed’ details in marked spoiler tags so as not to ruin it for others.
*Special forum rules may be enacted to address hotbutton items such as the rebuild films.
*There is no specific policy for spoilers in non-eva media, but use some common sense.


::While the occasional kneejerk reaction is expected, unnecessary flaming can usually be avoided by heeding the adage, “Stick to the points, not the people.” That is to say, in “heated debates” or elsewhere, the ''ideas'' presented by someone are to be addressed, as opposed to, e.g., the person’s reasons or motivations for having or advocating such ideas in the first place. (“''You’re'' only saying that because...”)
===What happens elsewhere should stay elsewhere.===


::Those in possession of a chronic bad attitude and the inability to distinguish adversarial behavior from proper conduct will be dealt with as needed.
*Drama and complaints about [https://forum.evageeks.org/thread/3511/chat-room-Created-one-IRCrizonnet-EGF/ the EvaGeeks IRC Channel] do not go to the forum, or vice-versa.
*The same rule applies to other unofficial communication methods such as skype or steam groups.
*The staff encourages users to raise issues directly either on the feedback forum or through PMs.


:'''H. <u>Trolling</u>''':
::As defined for online discussion environments, trolling is regarded as '''the intentional attempt to provoke a (usually emotional) response from any other user'''. (One example would be joining a Jewish forum and making posts exalting Naziism and the Holocaust, although the art can be far more subtle.) Since the staff only have users’ posts to go by, anything that reads as trolling will be considered trolling, regardless of intention. Users should take the necessary precautions. Those who engage in the behavior will be handled on a case by case basis.
::This does not, of course, preclude limited doses of “light-hearted idiocy” and “irony”. Forum veterans tend to be in a better position to engage in this than newbies, since the staff and other established members have usually reached the point of being able to gauge their intentions. As an extension of this, newbies still finding their place in the community should try not to overreact to established members’ “accepted behaviorisms”. (“Oh, don’t mind him. He’s the Official Forum Asshole.”) However, since sarcasm tends not to translate well over the Internet, everyone is encouraged not to be outright careless. (Context, for example, is always a plus.)
:'''I. <u>Spoilers</u>''':
::The website treats the original anime as the “default” and assumes that all visitors have viewed it in its entirety. Anyone who has ''not'' is considered at “open risk” of having the whole show ruined for them. Spoilers for other versions of ''Evangelion'' (the manga, Rebuild, etc.) must be confined to the various dedicated subfora. Given Rebuild’s status as a current and “hot” development, “spoilers” is extended beyond critical plot points to the gratuitous mention of any details someone may want to reserve for their initial viewing (e.g., on the various design overhauls or the new character / Evas). Specific rules for Rebuild-related spoilers are viewable [http://forum.evageeks.org/viewtopic.php?t=6660&start=0 here].
::There is no official spoilers policy for the discussion of non-''Eva'' media. Members are encouraged to make sensible judgments and take things on a case-by-case basis. For example, spoilers would be expected in a thread discussing impressions of a specific movie, but not in one devoted to recommending anime series.
===Threads===
:'''A. <u>Considerations</u>''':
::Before creating a new thread, there are some considerations that should be made.
::* '''''It is always better to post in a preexisting thread than to create a new one.''''' ''Always check to see if a thread satisfying your specifications has already been made.'' This means familiarizing yourself with the '''Search''' tool. (Or even just glancing at the first one or two pages of threads in the relevant subforum!) In most cases, the creation of “redundant threads” can be easily avoided, due to the fact that most species of thread are characterized by predictable key words. Checking the [http://forum.evageeks.org/thread_lists/ Forum Thread Lists] is highly encouraged.
:::If, for example, you intend to create a thread asking people about their favorite character(s), ''more than likely'' the key words "favorite characters" will produce the preexisting thread. Sometimes, when it's not as straightforward, you have to think a little harder and attempt to "predict" the key words that would turn up in topic titles or posts on a particular subject. This is part of database search technique; learning the various tricks of the trade is thoroughly recommended to anyone with access to a (usually) computer and an Internet connection.
::* If you have a general question, you should, beyond simply checking if one or more relevant threads already exist, see if your question is actually ''answered'' anywhere. While bumping an older thread is, as per above, considered preferable to creating a new one, why bump it at all to post a question that it could well fully address and answer (possibly within the first couple of pages)?
::*Threads on religion, politics, drugs, etc. exist at the pleasure of the moderators.
:'''B. <u>Location</u>''':
::Threads should be created in the proper subfora; please read the descriptions and make sure you are in the right one. Moderators will move misplaced threads, but it's better not to generate the extra hassle at all.
:'''C. <u>Naming</u>''':
::Please be sure to title threads appropriately. Titles should be descriptive and succinctly convey the topic of the thread as often as possible.
:'''D. <u>Necromancy</u>''':
::Bumping threads as described in '''A.''' is fine. However, ''gratuitous'' necromancy — bumping old threads for no constructive reason — is inappropriate.
:'''E. <u>Tangents</u>''':
::"Strings" of off-topic posts that break off from the original conversation should be avoided as much as possible. Instigating or contributing to the derailment of a thread is to be minimized. Members are encouraged to take initiative and divert off-topic conversation into a preexisting thread of the appropriate topic, a new thread, or, when appropriate, PMs or off-forum communication (for example, if they want to "talk to each other" instead of discuss the topic). This keeps the forum environment more organized and creates less work for the staff.
::Tangents are dealt with variously, as the staff sees fit. They may be split off into new threads, pruned into the graveyard, deleted outright (namely in instances of spam), or result in the thread getting locked.
:'''F1. <u>Merges</u>''':
::The moderation staff may merge existing redundant threads with pre-existing, relevant threads whenever possible. This is not an excuse to create new redundant threads; users are strongly encouraged to search for an existing topic. Users who repeatedly create redundant topics without searching are liable to having their topic locked (see below).
:'''F2.<u>Splits</u>''':
::In case of a part of a thread going off-topic, getting out of hand or degenerating into a flame war, moderators may split the thread. The split thread may be locked or allowed to continue as a separate thread, depending on the nature of the split section.
:'''F3:<u>Locks</u>''':
::A thread may be locked if the staff deems the it to have gone irretrievably off-topic, gotten hopelessly out of hand, lost all sense of purpose or proportion, degenerated into a flame war, or is otherwise inappropriate, and furthermore, unsuited to being split into multiple threads or merged with an existing thread. If a warning such as "TOPIC" is issued, posters should heed it and return the thread to its proper course.
::While most thread locks are permanent, some locks may be reversed after an appropriate "cooling off" period, or the offending posts may be split and the on-topic portion of the thread re-opened. In the meantime, do not create a new thread attempting to "reprise" it.
::In instances where an initially valid topic was closed for "losing its way", you may send a ''polite'' PM to a staff member requesting a re-open or split, if this has not already been done, but consider waiting an appropriate amount of time for the mods to cool down too.
::While it is not ''absolutely'' forbidden to re-start a valid thread that was closed for losing it's way and was not re-opened, please use common sense and an appropriate "cooling off" period when doing so. Attempts to thwart the moderation staff by ''immediately'' re-starting a locked thread will not be tolerated.
:'''G. <u>Polls</u>''':
::They have been disabled on this forum. Do not request them.
===Signatures===
:These are intended to be a ''compact and concise'' way of relating information about yourself and adding a "personal touch" to your forum presence.
:'''A.''' '''''Images are not permitted in signatures.'''''<br/>
:'''B.''' They should be ''as small as possible'' and never exceed 104 pixels in height (the equivalent of six lines of default-size text). Excessively large text (beginning at twice the default size) is not permitted.<br/>
:'''C.''' Unnecessary empty
:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; lines should be avoided. <br/>
:'''D.''' Quote tags and Code tags ''may '''not''''' be used. <br/>
:'''E.''' Colored text is permitted. Please try to avoid giving the other members optical fatigue, though.<br/>
:'''F.''' No spoilers for recently released media are permitted in signatures. Spoilers shall be purged from signatures on sight.
:'''G.''' Signatures may be modified without warning for failing to comply with the guidelines.
===Images===
:'''A.''' Images may be posted when relevant to a thread.
:'''B.''' Posting replies in the form of an image (e.g., [http://www.encyclopediadramatica.com/index.php/Image_Macro image macros]) is discouraged, and may constitute a warning. Silly images may be posted "for their own sake" in [http://evageeks.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1800 this thread].<br/>
:'''C.''' Large images (whether in size or dimensions) should be text linked rather than posted with the [img] tag (i.e., embedded).
:'''D.''' Do not post direct links (using either the [img] tag ''or'' text links) to images hosted on other websites. This is called [http://altlab.com/hotlinking.html "hotlinking"] and is, as a general rule, frowned upon. Upload images to your own webspace or to a free image-hosting service such as [http://imageshack.us/ ImageShack] or [http://www.photobucket.com Photobucket] before posting them. Hotlinking to images hosted on evageeks.org, evacommentary.org, and evamonkey.com is, however, permitted on the forum.
:'''E.''' If you intend to post a lot of images and/or large images within single posts, please be considerate and put them in spoiler tags.
===Avatars===
:These shall be no larger than 125x125 pixels and 30kb. Use common sense when selecting your avatar, e.g., no graphic imagery of any kind or obnoxious animations. Avoid using an avatar employed by another member if possible. As with signatures, spoilers are not permitted in avatars. Any avatars deemed inappropriate will be deleted.
===Other===
:'''A. <u>Copyrighted Media</u>'''
::Do not ask for, or provide links to, sites illegally hosting copyrighted media. If you want to download the entire show, its soundtracks, and scans of the entire manga, fine -- but do it without involving the forum.
::Exceptions are made for the sharing of "fair use" content such as (most) images, articles, translations, etc. Administrators also reserve the right to permit links to other copyrighted materials (such as media unavailable domestically) on a case-by-case basis.
::As a corollary of this policy, do not link to sites that sell bootlegs or that plagiarize materials from other sites.
:'''B. <u>Illicit Material</u>'''
::This forum is '''NOT''' a venue for finding or trading illicit material, e.g. exchanging pornography or recommending good places to find it. Anyone posting pornographic, sexually explicit, or offensive material is subject to administrative action. However, since this is an open Evangelion forum, topics pertaining to sex, nudity, and excessive violence may be brought up in the forum, as long as they are discussed with an appropriate level of maturity. Any "explicit" material pertaining directly to Evangelion is not forbidden and does not require approval, but it is better not to post images from, for instance, ''[[Evangelion:Stripping Instrumentality Project|Stripping Instrumentality Project]]'', unless there is a very good reason to do so.
:'''C. <u>IRC Channel</u>'''
:: The Forum is not a venue to complain about the actions of other members or board staff in the EvaGeeks IRC channel (IRC.rizon.net #egf), which is meant to be a place for everyone to chill out. As far as conflict is concerned, '''What goes on in the IRC stays in the IRC.''' The same applies to the Forum; please do '''not''' complain about the conduct of members or administrators in the IRC.


[[Category:Site Policies]]
[[Category:Site Policies]]

Latest revision as of 12:02, 23 February 2021

Here you will find a rundown of the rules and regulations of the EvaGeeks Forum. Know them, and know them well. Observation of the classic work Posting and You is also considered a prerequisite to posting.

Purpose

Evangelion unites us all. Better than the Olympics.

The purpose of the EvaGeeks Forum is to provide Evangelion fans with a pleasant, mature, and productive atmosphere for the discussion of the show and related topics. The forum also serves as an extension of the EvaGeeks site's content and services.

Enjoy Evangelion and let others enjoy Evangelion!

Rules

Zeroth Rule: Don’t be a jerk.

Be a good forum user in general.

  • Have fun and respect others' right to have fun too!
  • Read and understand these rules. If you have a question about something, ask!
  • Listen to the staff. We're just trying to keep the peace so giving us attitude won't help you much.
  • If you are temporarily banned, attempting to circumvent it will result in a permanent ban.
  • Only create one account per user. No sockpuppet theater, thanks.
  • Don’t abuse the private messaging system to harass or bully others.
  • If you have a problem with someone that you can’t solve yourself, use the "report" button or contact the staff.

Present yourself well.

  • Choose a user name that is unique, memorable and inoffensive.
  • Avatar images are limited to 125x125px and 30kb in size.
  • Avoid avatars that are unnecessarily inflammatory, offensive, lewd, distracting or simply in poor taste.
  • Try not to use an avatar that is overly similar to one already in use by another active member.
  • Keep your signature small and non-distracting. No bbc code (other than links) or images.
  • Use common sense in posting a personal picture or in making other contact options available.
  • Use the "Hello and Goodbye" thread to make an introduction, not a new thread.

Post in a form that we can actually read.

  • We use conversational English here, not chan-speak, 133t or any other such nonsense.
  • Use of other languages has no place here unless discussing translation.
  • Compose your thoughts as briefly as you can and in a well-structured form. Use spellchecker.
  • Use special formatting like bold, italics, colored text or nonstandard font sizes sparingly.
  • Boldred and boldgreen text is reserved for official staff use (and red only for something serious).
  • Don’t leave broken bbc code tags in your posts. Preview before you submit!

Actively contribute to threads.

  • Stick to the topic. Forum staff may split out worthwhile tangents, but try not to start them.
  • Avoid overly chatty conversations. This is a forum, not a chat room.
  • Don't just drop a link, share your thoughts and explain why we should care about it.
  • Use the edit button if you need to add to a prior post rather than double posting.
  • Avoid prolonged, heated arguments that shut down the rest of the thread (aka bumpercars).
  • When in a disagreement, stick to the points, not the people making them.
  • Trolls are not welcome here. If you’re here just for the lulz, don’t bother.
  • The same goes for spammers or ads. This is a forum, not a billboard.
  • Pointless nonsense like “inb4lock” or “First” is strongly discouraged.
  • Don’t be a killjoy. Avoid monotonous negative posting or nihilism baiting.
  • If you aren't a mod don't act like it. Just PM a staff member to address the issue.

Use quotes properly.

  • Don’t just quote an entire post. Trim it down to the relevant bit you’re addressing.
  • Stick to the main points. Don’t respond line-by-line to every little thing said (aka omnislashing).
  • If you have nothing to add other than agreement just say so, don’t quote it again.
  • Avoid using nested quotes unless absolutely necessary for context.
  • Make sure your quotes are properly attributed to the correct poster.

Use images properly.

  • Images can add a lot to a post, but don’t include them without reason.
  • Replying primarily with an image is discouraged. Use words, not macros or reaction faces.
  • Images with a large filesize should be linked, not embedded. Preferably with a thumbnail.
  • Avoid direct links (hotlinking). Host images on your own site or use a dedicated service.
  • When posting several photos you should use a spoiler and label it appropriately.
  • Some specifically image-heavy threads have their own special rules.

Create new threads and navigate older ones with care.

  • Before making a new thread, search to see if a thread already exists on the topic.
  • Bumping an older thread with relevant information or active contribution is encouraged.
  • Bumping a bunch of older threads just because you read them is not.
  • Don't make a new thread to replace one that was just locked. It was locked for a reason.
  • If you wish to make a new thread, make sure you do so in the proper subforum for the topic.
  • Give your new thread a name that makes it clear at a glance what it is about.
  • Polls are turned off for a reason. Don’t make pointless threads like that.

Have some common sense and basic human decency.

  • Don’t ask for or provide links to illegally hosted copyrighted material.
  • The same goes for bootleg merchandise or anything plagiarized.
  • The same also goes for pornography. Get your doujins elsewhere.
  • Posting explicit images or content is permitted only when relevant to a legitimate topic.
  • Don’t use the forum to plan, arrange, or enact any activities that are against the law.

Be mindful of spoilers.

  • The series, movie, and manga are all considered universally ‘open’ for spoilers at this point.
  • Newer content is considered ‘closed’ until it has been made legally available in the US.
  • Users are expected to keep ‘closed’ details in marked spoiler tags so as not to ruin it for others.
  • Special forum rules may be enacted to address hotbutton items such as the rebuild films.
  • There is no specific policy for spoilers in non-eva media, but use some common sense.

What happens elsewhere should stay elsewhere.

  • Drama and complaints about the EvaGeeks IRC Channel do not go to the forum, or vice-versa.
  • The same rule applies to other unofficial communication methods such as skype or steam groups.
  • The staff encourages users to raise issues directly either on the feedback forum or through PMs.