Like every group, Saplings-L has a variety of social customs, or "unwritten rules" as they're sometimes called. While they aren't actually enforced, it's best for new subscribers to be aware of these to avoid unintentionally offending anyone (or everyone).
- If at all possible, send all messages as plain text (not HTML or other formats). If you're not sure how to do this in your mailer, contact the list manager with the name and version of your mail program for help.
- People on this list like to know who's out there, and would appreciate it if you'd post an introduction and short bio soon after subscribing. Even if you intend to mainly lurk, it's preferred that you drop at least a brief note every now and again so people know that you're out there.
- Please sign every message you send; some list members don't get the "From:" field due to faulty mail servers, and this makes it easier for them to tell who messages are from.
- Generally, sending "e-parachuting cows," "e-snowballs," or anything else of that ilk is highly frowned upon.
- If you don't like any of the topics being discussed, please post a message regarding a topic you're interested in rather than complaining about the lack of interesting conversation. Generally people will have plenty to say on any topic you bring up.
- Most people on this list would take "opinionated" as a compliment; many of them will disagree with you, and will have no qualms about telling you so and exactly why.
- Also, please try not to post a lot of one line messages, and try not to leave whole messages quoted in your replies; usually a few of the most relevent lines of the message you're replying to is sufficient. If you do feel the need to send one-liners, please try to combine them into one email message.
- And last but not least, do not ask questions unless you are fully prepared to have them answered.
