Sometimes I leave a comment like "Stack Overflow is not your personal research assistant," but am accused of being rude.  How can I craft a comment that is seen as civil to the community and instructive to the OP?


What tone should I strike in comments?
What are some examples of bad comments and their better replacements?



Question: Folder compare tool?
Answer: I'm a little bit shocked that Total Commanders folder compare ability wasn't mentioned so far.

Total Commander


  Features in Total Commander 8.01 now include
  - Two file windows side by side
  - Multiple language and Unicode support
  - Enhanced search function
  - Compare files (now with editor) / synchronize directories