I'll be quick on this one. Writing rules for your RPG can be tricky, but today's tip to bear in mind is: Don't suggest. And don't use the word "try" anywhere in your rules.
It doesn't work. Ever.
"Try to keep a balance between the types of characters you play," or, "Try not to post one liners/Try not to put too big a picture in your sig," whatever. Or anything with the word 'try.' This doesn't create a rule, it creates a guideline, per se. People don't listen to guidelines on an RPG. Unless they're enforced like rules, and then they should have been written up as rules in the first place.
"Don't post one liners." "Don't use pictures more than 500 pixels wide in your sig." Make the rules concrete so people know just what their limits are. Other similar pitfalls to avoid are things like, "It's a good idea if..." "You probably shouldn't..." "You should..." Just don't use the word "should" at all either. Use must, can't, do, don't. Always use absolutes if you mean it absolutely. And bearing in mind that things like "large," "small," and "balanced," are arbitrary terms and if you are placing a concrete limit on such traits you need to be specific.
Everyone is much happier when they know their limits. Make sure your rules are clear on them! :)
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