In a world that never sleeps, technology is taking over nearly every form of communication. While group chats can make things easier, they can also be a real pain in the ass sometimes. Love 'em or hate 'em, there's a few unwritten rules and regulations to follow if you want to avoid being "that guy." So, I'm here to spell them out for you:

1. Know your group members.

If it was made for close friends and stupid memes, then clearly you don't need a huge filter. If you don't know the other members as well, it's definitely best to watch your tongue.

2. Double and triple check your responses before you hit send.

I've made the mistake of sending an extremely unflattering photo of myself, or an inappropriate joke, to the wrong chat one too many times. Even if you're not easily embarrassed, sending your boss something stupid you found on iFunny, and meant to send to your friend, is enough to make anyone want to hide under a rock. So, check yourself before you wreck yourself.

3. Don't mute important chats.

The mute button works wonders when your friends are blowing up your phone over something you couldn't care for even if you tried. While it's a saving grace, the mute button should not be used on groups for important information. It shows a lack of interest, and is borderline disrespectful when the chat is used for announcements or reminders. If you must turn off notifications, let the head honcho know why, and give him/her an estimated time of when you'll be back.

4. Check the time.

No one wants to wake up at four in the morning to someone responding to a conversation that happened hours ago. Whether the other members live right down the street, or are scattered around the world, know your time zone changes, and don't start a conversation when other people are trying to catch some Z's.

5. Be respectful.

Going back to my first point, know your group members. My Odyssey team has frequent conversations to ask other writers for their opinions or ideas on different topics. We have a wide range of social, political and religious beliefs, so it makes for some interesting contributions. The beauty of it is that we recognize this, and treat each other with nothing but respect when we disagree. We all come from different walks of life, so I'll repeat: watch your tongue.

6. Be mature.

If there's a heated debate going on, make sure you don't overreact. Take a step back, and re-evaluate your standpoint. Will your response add fuel to the fire? If so, maybe it's best to just tune out and mind your own business until things calm down.

7. If you have a serious issue with another member, speak up.

Talk to other members you trust outside of the group chat. It's very likely that others have noticed if someone has been directly inappropriate or disrespectful. However, if your issue lies outside the group chat, it's best to bite the bullet unless it's detrimental. If you think you should say something to the man or woman in charge, go for it. That's your call to make, so choose your battles wisely.

8. Keep conversations all-inclusive.

Don't start a chat with one other person that does not concern anyone else. Questions that aren't directed at the group in general should be sent in a private message.

9. Respond to RSVP requests.

Some events take a lot of planning, and are easily affected by attendance. If someone asks for a head count, be courteous and give them an answer. Even if you're not sure yet, give them a heads-up.

10. Not all reminders require a response.

Let's say you're involved in a club, and the person in charge sends out a reminder that T-shirt money is due next week. There is no need to trigger a chain reaction of replies by confirming that you'll have it ready. Make a note of it, and move along.

11. Don't ask a question that's been answered several times already.

Private message another group member if you're too lazy to scroll up and find the solution. Save links and/or screenshots of FAQ's if they're made available. Don't be "that guy."

12. There's a time and a place for everything.

Contribute when necessary and/or desired, but don't overwhelm people with your personal issues. Even if the group chat was made for fun, try not to overstay your welcome. Just use common sense, and you'll be fine.