Most people who cheat know they are cheating—they’ve created multiple accounts to gain points in various ways, or negatively target other members. However, many people don’t understand that “point-gaming” is also considered cheating.

The following are some common ways people attempt to point-game:

• Answering questions with only “Thanks for the two points”, “Pick me as best”, “IDK” (I don’t know), “Do a search”, etc., without including a legitimate answer.
• Posting questions that offer points for any reason other than for the best answer. For example, “Free points for the first person to post an answer?” or “Make me laugh and get 10 points?” It’s OK to say you’ll give 10 points to the person with the best answer if coupled with a legitimate question.
• Posting “Star my question?” without including a legitimate question.