The most efficient way to get around Ames is by using the city bus system, CyRide. And as such, here are some simple dos and don’ts to follow to help keep everyone’s ride comfortable.

Do take seats between two people as the bus fills up. Maybe you really don’t want to sit next to someone you don’t know, but during peak hours you have to forgo your personal space bubble.

Don’t take up a seat with your backpack when the bus is getting full. Most people are too uncomfortable asking for the seat, so do them a favor and help make space.

Do enjoy listening to music while riding, but keep the volume low enough that others don’t have to hear it. The bus does get louder than your average headphones, so be aware with a little trial and error.

Don’t start random conversations with people next to you. This might seem strange, as being friendly is usually encouraged, but most people don’t want to have an inane conversation.

Do give up your seat for the elderly, the handicapped, pregnant women and young children — you know the drill — when seated toward the front of the bus. And even if your are in the back, be nice and show courtesy to others.

Don’t talk loudly on your phone, especially about personal issues or gossip. With that in mind, just consider not using your phone on the bus; text or tell people you will call them back.

Do maintain your place in line as if you were waiting on tickets to a nearly sold out concert. Only so many people can get on a bus at a time, and there are a lot of people that will try to line jump. Tell them to wait their turn.

Don’t try eating food on the bus. Wait the short time to get off.

Do move toward the back of the bus when you get on and know it will be full. Those front seats are closer, but when the bus is filling up — and you will realize when it is going to be busy by the crowds of students standing in line waiting outside — taking the front seats only makes it harder to get everyone aboard.

Don’t exit at the front of the bus. It might be more convenient, but the additional five seconds to use the rear door will make it easier for getting other folks on while you leave.

Do try to shower when you plan to ride during peak hours. Frequently you will have to look like a monkey and stand while holding the bars on the bus. Notice this means your arm is up in the air. Notice how smelling fresh will let you avoid embarrassment and let others avoid foul stenches.

Don’t litter or leave the Iowa State Daily on the seats. Bring your trash with you.

Do feel free to talk to friends if you are seated next to each other, but speak quietly enough so others don’t have to become a part of the conversation. This rule is remanded during twilight hours (or drunk-bus hours as they are more accurately termed) as keeping students quiet while they are intoxicated or excited to go out is simply a ludicrous notion.

Don’t crop dust the bus. If you have to pass gas, do it before you get on.

Do clearly show the driver your ID card. If the driver cannot see it, they will stop you and ask to see it again, which slows down the entire bus ride.

Don’t be late to your bus stop. Waiting around sucks, but making others wait as you run down the street is rude. Plan ahead, or suffer through the few minutes it takes for the next bus to arrive.

Do use the bus to go get groceries and other goods you have to shop for. Just don’t do so during peak use hours. There will not be room for all your bags, so think ahead.

Don’t cross in front of a bus that is already waiting at a crosswalk, wait a few seconds for it to pass. It is hard enough for the drivers to keep things running on time during peak hours, thanks to all the students getting on and off.

Do pull the stop cord well before the actual bus stop. Pulling it at the last minute isn’t funny, and drivers can just ignore you so that they don’t have to slam on the brakes to let your inattentive or obnoxious self off.

Don’t open windows if it is raining or cold. By the same rationale, don’t close them if it is scorching hot.