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Re: Yodaa




==============================================================
FAQ maintainer: should "I am a newbie, where can I get help
without bothering the list?" be added? Section 3 of the FAQ
does not really look sufficient, does it?
==============================================================

OK, you have been warned: it is not a newbie list. However, it all
depends on your trying to solve the problems you have yourself
by the tedious RTFM process, and if that does not help, on your
ability to formulate your problems.

Other list members may have different opinions on what you
should do. They are right.

IMHO, there are several points to consider:

1) Have you got Linux installed? Are your problems related to
   installation / initial configuration? If yes, have you got access
   to a computer (linux or otherwise) elsewhere? You did send this
   post from (shiver) a Windows box, didn't you? Did you try to read
   the installation-related docs online? If you are trying to install
   Red Hat, look at

   http://www.redhat.com/cgi-bin/support#install

   Also consult the ILUG FAQ.  If you have no net access, or if you
   still have problems, consider coming to one of the installation
   parties, or look through the member list for someone who lives
   close by and is willing to help.

2) If installation is not a problem, have you learned how to use the
   online documentation? Man, info, /usr/doc/HOWTO (location is
   probably distribution dependent) - learn how to use them, develop a
   habit of looking there yourself first. You probably have some idea
   of what basic tools you are using, such as bash.  Read the
   corresponding man or info pages. Next step - the Net - find out
   about the relevant newsgroups and mailing lists - there are quite a
   few that are more appropriate and friendlier to newbies than
   ours. Learn how dejanews (http://www.deja.com IIRC) works,
   etc. Remember, your queries must be specific and as precise as
   possible.

3) You really really need local help, the Net did not provide the
   information you need. Look at the ILUG member list, the keywords
   list the interests / areas of expertise. Inquire politely, in a
   private email, if a particular individual can and is willing to
   help with a specific question. The worst that can happen will be a
   no. Or no reply.  Neither is a reason to commit suicide or to 
   rm -rf /.

4) Browse the list archives to figure out what questions are likely
   to draw a flame and what will likely be answered.

5) Post to the list only if all else fails or if the question pertains
   to ILUG interests as spelled out on the web page. Be specific. Be
   prepared for flames.  Learn to procmail them ;-)

Most importantly, do your best to make as much progress as you can
towards the solution before asking for help. The help/flame ratio
grows with the perceived amount of effort that you have invested.


-- 
Oleg Goldshmidt          goldshmt@netvision.net.il   
BLOOMBERG L.P. (BFM)     oleg@bfr.co.il


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