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From: johnston@oscar.ccm.udel.edu
Newsgroups: comp.sys.mac.apps
Subject: Re: Basic questions posted to the net.
Message-ID: <36278@nigel.ee.udel.edu>
Date: 14 Nov 90 02:21:19 GMT
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In article <2287.27414833@waikato.ac.nz>, phil@waikato.ac.nz writes...
>In article <2715@ux.acs.umn.edu>, clarson@ux.acs.umn.edu (Chaz Larson) writes:
>> Often in comp.sys.mac.*, I have seen questions asked that are of an extremely
>> basic nature; things that can be found in the manuals of the products without
>> a great deal of trouble.
>> 
>> I thought it might benerate some lively discussion.

I agree.

>I'm not sure if I've ever seen one (but I've got my flame-proof suit handy just
>in case it exists), but perhaps a Frequently Asked Questions file as seen in
>other newsgroups would be a good idea.  If it was posted once a week, say, old

A first attempt at a FAQ file _was_ posted in comp.sys.mac.announce recently.
It's a good place for stuff like 'how to ftp', 'what's Binhex 4.0', etc.

Otherwise, I think basic questions are fine.  I disagree with the 
premise that some individuals will use the net in lieu of a manual.  I haven't
seen any evidence of particular individuals 'coming to the well' repeatedly.
(Although a few people have gone out of their way to ANSWER more than their
share -- and thanks!)

I think instead that a little 'net.goodwill' goes a long way.  Most people
get a lot a news by merely reading (aka lurking).  A polite and helpful
response to a 'Help Wanted' posting demonstrates the information sharing 
ethic that underlies the net.  Who knows, that person may turn around 
and become a Mac resource for a whole workgroup or company ... 

So what if some people can learn to use a Mac without reading a manual.
Doesn't it follow that some others may likewise learn it without a manual 
but with the benefit of an answer to one good question?

The alternative is to treat the public information networks as a forum
for experts-only to show off their expertise.  Big deal!  That's fine
for alt.flame and alt.religion.computers.  

Keep the beginner questions coming!

______________________________________________________________________
    Bill Johnston; 38 Chambers St.; Newark, DE 19711; (302)368-1949
                  (johnston@oscar.ccm.udel.edu
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