TOP TWELVE RP PET PEEVES

There are just some things that drive people nuts in roleplay. Everybody has pet peeves, those little behaviors that happen over and over again that just drive us nuts. Here are some of what we think are the top twelve ones we all might share:


12. Nagging about replies or bumping posts for attention.Just don't. If it's been longer than usual between replies, maybe check in with your co-author(s) by inquiring if the RP is progressing to their satisfaction or ask if they're okay if you're closer friends with them, but don't pull the guilt trip thing and don't whine. This is a sure way to annoy others.


11. Not understanding what a plot is but asking to plot.'I'm cool with whatever' is not a plot.


10. Needing hand holding for every single reply.If this is the case, then we probably need to plot more and clarify the story. Having to discuss every single reply is hugely time consuming, especially when you have a number of concurrent RPs happening with various people at any given time.


9. Asking for clarification/discussion on a story and getting nothing back.I don't do this often, but when I do, it's because I honestly need some input in order to respond appropriately. I wouldn't ask if it wasn't necessary and I'm not just trying to waste your time.


8. RP abandonment with no communication.Nobody likes getting dropped, but shit happens. I understand that. Even if you're just bored with the story, a quick note to say that you're dropping it is appreciated. You don't even have to give a reason if you don't want to. I'm not gonna freak out, I promise. If you feel better posting a status that you're taking a hiatus rather than discussing privately, just tag your current co-authors to give them a heads up.


7. Replies that don't move the story ahead at all.This is just one of those RP things everybody hates. Nobody wants to feel like they have to drag the other writers along in the RP.


6. Random confrontational behavior, either IC or OOC.Acting like a jerk out of character seems like a super obvious no-no, but people still do it regularly, so it's on the list. In-character confrontations really need to be at least discussed a bit to avoid possible butthurt, forcing the other writer to alter their characterization, or godmoding.


5. Requesting to plot with no published writing samples or no character bio.How can anybody be expected to know if they want to write with you/your character if you don't have anything for them to review? Focus on that before approaching others.


4. Requesting to RP but having no ideas to offer.It's selfish and rude. Other people aren't idea vending machines and it's not their job to entertain. If you ask for someone's time and effort, have something to offer in return; it's only polite. Otherwise, it comes across like you've given zero thought to the prospect and really just don't care.


3. Not reading at least someone's info page and rules, if they have them posted.This is just a respect thing and shows you're serious about wanting to write. Asking to plot when you have no idea about the character you're asking to write with says you're not willing to do the simple research, so why should anyone think you're willing to make the effort in an actual RP?


2. Jealousy.If your writing partner has multiple muses, realize that you only have something to do with the muse you're writing with. What they're doing on other faces has no bearing on you and your storyline, so acting butthurt or pouty about other accounts and them writing with other people is a quick way to lose favor. Don't try to change a multi-ship account into an exclusive with you. It will backfire.


1. Saying you read someone's info page and rules when you didn't.Trust me, we'll know. Lying to your prospective co-author(s) isn't a great way to start the relationship.


As always, these articles are merely suggestions and recommendations based on our experience. People are free to do as they please with their writing. These aren't rules and the author has provided this in an attempt to be helpful to other writers. If the information doesn't suit you, simply disregard.


What are your RP pet peeves? Feel free to leave a comment below!








With gracious editorial help from: