---
# System prepended metadata

title: 1. Keep the learning environment positive

---

# 1. Keep the learning environment positive

## Do:
### Give constructive criticism, not nitpicks or pedantry
### Redirect people to #beginners
### Follow academic honesty

## Do not:
### Spoon Feed
### Language Flame
### Discourage learning
### Interrupt if someone's already getting help



# 2. Be nice
## Do:
### Treat everyone with respect

## Do not:
### Argue from authority



# 3. No illegal or prohibited topics / Security and hacking

## Do not:
### Discuss anything prohibited by law or a service’s Terms of Service (ToS)
### Talk about hacking, “offensive security”, or the like
### Post NSFW content
### Post controversial content


# 4. Don't obstruct moderation

## Do:
### Use only English
### Follow the spirit of the rules and assume good-faith

## Do not:
### Impersonate staff
### Discuss infractions in public - DM @modmail instead.


# 5. Stay on topic

## Do not:
### Derail constructive conversation
### Ask for or hand out life advice


# 6. No solicitation or advertising

## Do not:
### Recruit or ask for free work
### Advertise
### Direct Message users without their prior consent


# 7. Use ModMail to contact staff

## Use it when:
### You see a rule break or want further clarifications

## Do not use it when:
### You want idle chitchat or programming help
### There's an extreme case that need *immediate* attention. Instead, ping the `serious rule break` role.
