Helpful users are at the edge of the network

You use search engines to find information, but often end up contacting the author of the information since you and the author share a common interest. The Internet has its roots in the academic and research communities where the culture favors sharing of information. People are still generally supportive of each other. When you are stuck, don't just look for information, look for people who can help you.

There are support forums (threaded discussion servers), email lists, and frequently asked question (FAQ) lists for nearly any topic and on nearly every commercial or open source program.

In the threaded discussion shown below, three people helped me out with a question about the Audacity audio editing program. Note that the first person to reply pointed out that my question did not quite make sense -- do not be shy when asking for help -- we are all beginners in most things. Note also that I created this thread by posting my question in the General section of the Audacity 1.2.x forum.

 

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