Use an offline mail reader. You'll have more time to read and write, and
you'll be able to edit both your messages and their subject lines at any time before you
upload.
Post only public mail on ILink; ILink does not support private mail. If
replying online, set the message ECHO option to "Yes".
Revise the subject line when the direction of the thread changes. People
often only read messages with subject lines that interest them. Make your subject lines
both clear and clever!
State your point without delay. For example, when asking for help, state
the gist of the problem, *then* add details and background.
Write concisely. Write short, brief sentences and paragraphs. The
quicker you communicate your thoughts the smaller the chance will be that the reader has
skipped to the next message. Most people can only grasp about seven ideas at once, so
avoid lumping divergent thoughts into single paragraphs.
Write clearly. Avoid pronouns such as "she", "he",
"it", "they" and "those" -- ESPECIALLY when referring to a
previous message. Expand pronouns, abbreviations and acronyms.
Also keep in mind that ILink is an international network; people from
outside the USA may not be familiar with American slang, TV or politics.
Use blank lines often. Insert blank lines between paragraphs, and
between quotes and original text. Proper use of whitespace helps the reader's eyes to
focus on the text.
Minimize quoting. Instead of quoting large segments, only quote enough
to anchor the subject. Summarize or restate some points if it helps. Quoted text is seldom
read so delete anything that you aren't referring to directly.
Summarize your messages. People will understand you better.
Encourage people to respond. Include a few questions or requests in your
messages.
