to want to know some of the unspoken rules of MN?

[Gurke]

Just that really! I only joined a few months ago and have already learnt a lot of useful (and some less useful) stuff. On the whole I've been impressed by the tone of helpful solidarity and good-natured humour that prevails. But every now and then I'm wondering what I'm missing: why do some threads get hardly any replies, but others with pretty much the same question get loads? Why, as I read somewhere here, are displays of affection such as xx or virtual hugs a big no-no? Why does posters' whininess seem to be more accepted than neediness or petulance? (Huge generalisation, maybe unjustified) I'm a bit surprised about myself that I care, but I guess during the marathon of night feeds MN has become a rather good companion whose dynamics and rules I'd like to know better.

I'm not trying to be controversial, by the way, just genuinely curious.

They are unspoken and unwritten rules so we can't tell you!

I didn't realise that there were any unspoken rules; MNers are a pretty vocal bunch, so all rules appear to be extremely spoken!

I know people put things like 'unmumsnetty hugs', but in the right circumstances, hugs are appropriate and I've never seen anybody ridicule them.

Txt spk nvr goez dwn wel

No one knows the answer to the first question. That's just the way of message boards everywhere.

Don't use text speak.

Search any AIBU before posting especially if it involves pierced toddlers or pushchairs on buses.

If you are entering into a debate make sure your spelling is correct or any perfectly valid points you make will be ridiculed.

The latter two learnt from bitter experience :o

Don't post non AIBUs in AIBU.

Don't call others 'hun'.

Arguments are best avoided but when they do start, do not hurl personal insults. Try and maintain a civil tone otherwise you'll fall short.

Don't hijack other's threads.

Always remember that there is a genuine person at te end of the other computer/laptop/mobile device. Well, most of the time - beware of Trolls.

Expect the entire direction of the thread to be dictated by the first few posts as posters jump on a bandwaggon - this is more likely to occur in AIBU

Never EVER call anyone hon/hun

No "hunz"
No "lolz"

Extra-marital affairs are always wrong
Stepmothers are evil witches
WOHMs do everything at home a SAHM does and hold down a job as well
Rich people must be taxed to death

I am always right.

Housework is akin to servitude

Xs are unnecessary.

A difficult habit for me to break.
X

You can fucking swear.

Nah, I give 'xxx' now an then, when appropriate. It's nice :)

And, you are free to learn new swears, like cockbadger and fucknuts

It's better to be bolshy than twee/cute.

Always click on links and google phrases or words if you're not sure what they mean.

Say what you think and think what you say!

Read the thread.

If you ask for opinions, don't be surprised when you get them.

And the old classic of "I disagree with what you say, but I defend your right to say it". Or something like that.

Oh Lols pmsl

Hugzzzz

Xxxxx

Nobody tells me nuffin

Remember the Mumsnet Addendum to Goodwin's Law: If you say 'but don't you love your children?' or similar, you automatically lose the argument.

If you name change, throw a pom bear to make people believe you are not a troll.
as if persistent trolls haven't cottoned on that by now

Don't post links to the DM. :o

Don't get angry just because you don't like the answers.

Read at least the last update from the OP, and save yourself from ridicule.

Always leave the bastard

DON'T SHOUT!!

(And don't take things personally)