
So you look on the homepage and browse through the list of threads. You see some that are good and stand out as questions or discussions you want to be a part of. Then you see some threads that look like someone was typing the thread blindfolded using their feet instead of their hands. This blog is going to help you to get your thread noticed and answered.
Content
This is where the meat of your question or discussion goes. You want to clearly state your question while giving enough of a background for someone to give you an educated answer. Explain as clearly and concisely as possible. Try not to use too many abbreviations or acronyms and if you do, be sure to state what they stand for. Make sure to give all pertinent information relative to your problem, even if you think it may not help. It is better to give too much information than not enough when trying to diagnose problems.
Proofread your content. Correct any spelling or grammar mistakes that you see. If English is not your first language, it may be helpful to state that. I know that not everyone is training to be editors, but a clean description goes a lot further than a messy one. Also, if you are going to say "please" and "thank-you," take the time to write it out and not abbreviate it to "plz" or "ty." It sounds much more sincere when you take the extra half-second and type it out.
You also have the option of choosing between "Question" and "Discussion" as the type of thread you are starting. If you are trying to start a discussion, then click the discussion bubble. If you are asking a question or need that sort of help, click the question bubble.
Make sure to thoroughly examine the CR4 website to see if it has already been covered. This can be done using the Community search bar at the top of each page. Any thread content violating the rules of the forum will be eliminated. Do not post phone number, email addresses, or other personal information.

The Title
Using titles like "Help" and "Please Answer My Question Now" are not going to differentiate you from the crowd in a good way. An effective title summarizes what you are inquiring about. For example, if you have a question about problems with your car, a title of "Automobile Problems" is not the best. Try for the more specific approach of "2000 Nissan Maxima Oil Light Blinks." It gives other CR4 members a hint of what will be in the content. Do not post titles that have nothing to do with the content of the thread.
Sometimes using a question for a title will prompt more interest or discussion.
Part 2 of this blog series will explain how to choose a forum for your thread.
|
Comments rated to be Good Answers: