My comments are based on the assumption of a two speed system. We all know when it's a simple question, so go to the "silly question" forum first. Colin Angus Mackay wrote: those that give up their free time to help will get irritated and go away If those helping expect simple questions they won't be irritated. Actually they get a chance to help. This = "feel good" Colin Angus Mackay wrote: While no book or help system is 100% perfect, they answer the majority of my questions if I am willing to look hard enough. I have stacks of books at home where I've annotated the index and contents pages (as well as the pages in between) with notes pointing to other books in my library. Research often pays great dividends. mmmmm. where to start ? I know ... Good for you :-) Not everyone has the space or money for all those books. I use several languages and operating systems.. each needing it's own mass of books ! The purpose of research is to get an answer, often asking a friend is the place to start, not a last resort.

Perhaps what is needed are at least two levels of forum One for "worthy" questions and one for "easy if you know the answer" questions. I often find that books and help systems like to answer their own questions, but not mine. Why should I spend hours searching if someone would be happy to help ? I don't even wear my hair shirt these days ! A 'simple questions' forum would give those who are not experts a chance to help their fellow man, or indeed woman. > too many people use the Internet as they would >not behave in real life I think today the internet is part of real life, it helps real people communicate.