Chatting

Online chat can refer to any kind of communication over the Internet, but is primarily meant to refer to direct one-on-one chat or text-based group chat using tools such as instant messengers, Internet Relay chat, talkers and possibly MUD's. The expression online chat comes from the word chat which means "informal conversation
The term chatiquette is a variation of netiquette and describes basic rules of online communication. To avoid misunderstandings and to simplify the communication between users in a chat these conventions or guidelines have been created. Chatiquette varies from community to community, generally describing basic courtesy it introduces new user into the community and the associated network culture. As an example, it is considered rude to write only in UPPER CASE, because it looks as if the user is shouting. The word chatiquette has been used in connection with various chat systems (e.g. IRC) since 1995.
Remember, your alias is a way that others in the chat can identify you. Our recommendation is to NOT divulge any accurate personal information in your alias. You don't want strangers to know too much about you just from reading your ID.
Online IDs can communicate something about the person behind them, so be certain of what you are willing to share. For example, the name "Butterflyfan" communicates that a user might be fond of butterflies. There is little risk of someone being able to distinguish one fan of butterflies from the millions of others who exist in the world. On the other hand, the name "Butterflies4Jane" may go too far. It provides someone with a name—both a conversation starter and a misguided sense of familiarity.