List Members FAQ

What's OT stand for? And why do people get so bent out of shape about it?

OT stands for Off Topic. Most lists have a specific interest or topic and most people join for info or discussion about that specific interest or topic and especially with busy discussion lists, some members simply don't have the time to deal with any messages that don't pertain to the list topic. By putting OT: at the beginning of the subject line of any message that is off-topic, people who aren't interested in off-topic messages can easily delete them or sort them to a different folder to read later. Some lists stringently enforce the rule of putting OT in the subject of off-topic messages and some don't, but even there, it's a courteous thing to do, it's kind to your fellow list members. And remember that some lists do not allow any off-topic posts at all, so check the list rules before posting anything off-topic, you'll save yourself trouble and grief that way.