[Andy Baker]

Yes, I a resurrecting an old thread, but I have a reason:

It seems like some new users are getting red dots quickly these days. I can understand if this user is being blatantly inappropriate and they deserve to get some negative rep. However, I see some new users who are getting slapped with negative rep for making a the typical newbie mistakes, such as not searching before they post or not paying attention to out-dated threads.

So... users, I ask you to give these newbies a break. Although you crusty vets see these mistakes happen often, new members still need your patience. Before whacking them with some negative rep, send them some neutral rep or a PM to give them some advice. Then, if they don't listen to you, you can be more blunt by giving them your negative rep rating as you wish.

Of course, how you use your rep points is up to you. Consider this a simple request.

Andy B.