Just like in any community there are things that you ought not to do to avoid annoying your fellow Residents. While the exact social standards vary from community to community within Second Life there are a few basics that are worth observing.

1) Don't shout in text: capital letters for Chat are perceived as shouting and can annoy readers,

2) Don't enter a private house uninvited. Just because you can get into everywhere does not mean it is polite to do so!

3) Don't prim litter. When you are done with objects it's a good idea to clean up. Either, right click on the object and select "Take" from the menu, to move it to your inventory, or right click and select "More>Delete",

4) Observe the PG and Mature rating of the sim you are in, it can be seen next to your location on the top menu bar. Just because a sim is rated mature doesn't mean anything goes though and is not an invitation to say or do absolutely anything you want.

5) Second Life is all about community and just saying hi to people is highly encouraged.Keep in mind that they might be shopping, building or just passing through and can’t talk at the moment. If they don’t say hi back then don’t pester them or get annoyed, but also don’t get scared off from saying hello to the next person,

6) Some sims are Roleplay Sims and they follow strict rules. They will often give you something to wear when you arrive to show you are not involved in the game and with their own rules,

7) Not everyone is happy to answer questions about Real Life. Do not be offended if someone chooses not to reply to one,

8) Although there are weapon systems available these are really intended for specific war game sims or for defence from griefers. It is a violation of the Terms of Service to use them on just anyone and could lead to punishment for griefing,

This is by no means a comprehensive list! Just some basic pointers. Generally behave as you would in life and you will not go far wrong.