In the List Tools (customized settings) which only the List Administrator can access, the choice is given of either checking or unchecking a box next to following statement: "Replies should go back to the list by default". They either do or don't. There's no other choice, or other way it can be set up. The reply to list by default feature is beneficial because it keeps the facts on the list and into archives so that future researchers can benefit from the information. When the information is sent via private response, it's not doing anyone else any good but the person who receives it. I agree too that everyone should make an effort to see that their thank you's are sent via private e-mail. Bettye On Thu, March 3, 2005 2:31 pm, [email protected] said: > "In my opinion, not having them default to the List, leaves a > lot of unanswered questions in the archives because a lot of people just > click "reply" and don't realize it's not going back to List" > > Possibly it could be set up so you can either reply to the list or to the > individual? My AOL does that - it is rather annoying to have those lists > whose every reply goes to the entire list - so much of the replies are > just a thank you or something that is not relevant to the list at all. >