I was checking this thread and coninicidently I had this open at side :
http://trash.chregu.tv/instructions.txt

lol. I knw this is not the place, just cudn't resist

I mostly agree with your summing up. But I would change the rule #2 a bit.
Because what I wanted to tell with my example is that it's not always necessary to post what people request. And if you don't know why you should post something, you can ask, "Hey, why to you need that?" and they should explain you. When this is clear, it's rude not to post the thing, I agree.

And yes, communication is the clue. When solving problems, usually it's not about speedy solution, but about learning stuff. With that in mind, most hard feelings are gone.

Hi,

I do agree that communication is the important thing here. That layer is very if'y at times. Not just for newbies. The conveyance of information either written or spoken can be mis interpreted at any one time. Now bring into the mix the international spice and things can become even more difficult. I will give the newbie some space at times but when the same goes on and on without even a hint of using the presented solution and then to complain about the situation.

The same user failing to even provide requested information when things start to get fun. Most just state that they will re-install or just move on to another distro. What a loss, to find a stumbling block and not knowing that to move to one side to avoid it. Instead just move on to the next set of blocks.

We don't have to respond. If I feel someone isn't or hasn't tried some form of solving the problem by themselves then I generally pass. If the user is at ends with the problem then that is when help is usually needed. I will then throw my $.02 into the mix.

As for the stupid questions. I think that no question is stupid! Maybe the presenter just doesn't know how to formulate a smart question. Sure, we all start somewhere but one should engage a little gray matter before they engage the pink (tong in cheek).