RE: [PHP] [Newbie Guide] For the benefits of new members

On 11 August 2003 18:08, Van Andel, Robbert wrote: > Personally, I think one of the worst replies someone on the > list can do when > someone new asks a question is send only a link to the manual. It's > presumption that everyone will understand the way the manual > is worded. > There have been times when it's confused me and I needed > another perspective > on the topic. If you find the question juvenile or unworthy > of anything > more than a link to the manual, don't reply to it. The best way to combat this is to *say* that you've RTFM and don't understand it -- this should stop you getting simple RTFM answers. If you can be fairly precise about what's confusing you, then you should get good, focussed answers. You might even get a manual editor tuning in who can improve the manual in the light of your comments. If I respond with a link to the manual, it's usually because I think the manual says it as well as (or better than) I can -- not through laziness. But, yes, I have over 20 years' experience of reading (and writing!) manuals, and sometimes I may overestimate the usefulness of a manual page to a beginner -- so I won't be offended if you come back from RTFM-ing and say something like "I read that, but I don't understand x because y -- could you explain a bit further, please?". Cheers! Mike --------------------------------------------------------------------- Mike Ford, Electronic Information Services Adviser, Learning Support Services, Learning & Information Services, JG125, James Graham Building, Leeds Metropolitan University, Beckett Park, LEEDS, LS6 3QS, United Kingdom Email: m.ford@lmu.ac.uk Tel: +44 113 283 2600 extn 4730 Fax: +44 113 283 3211