An expert speaks on pranking techniques

Another year has begun, and with it has come pranking. This year, however, there's been a large number of pranks. Ridiculously large. But I won't question professors about how much homework they've been giving. Pranking is one of the most enjoyable activities at college (except for the illegal ones), and it promotes teamwork, ingenuity, and thoughtful planning. In other words, it's perfect for engineers!

However, it can have some pretty nasty results. Before someone has to tell an RA why all his stuff is on Ebay, I've decided to help.

First, take credit for your pranks. For example, stealing Speed's rope light sign: cool. Never showing it in public: kinda stupid. It's the equivalent of robbing a bank and throwing the money away. If I had that sign, it would be on Deming's roof, rearranged to spell "Deming" for all of Speed to see. Let everyone know who to target next. If you don't want people to know, don't do it.

Second, if you make a mess, clean it up! Dropping three feet of paper into the lobby of BSB was a pretty good prank, and coming back to clean it up was even better. Upsetting RAs can really limit your pranking, so make sure you clean up when you're done.

Next, don't do anything irreversible. Sure, painting "Triplets Rock" on the Union patio would be cool, but due to the bill, I'd say no. This includes dangerous pranks. As one wise RA would say, "That's liability, and liability is bad."

Also, choose your targets wisely. Tag-bombing a room: kinda funny. Tag-bombing the room of an asthmatic who begins to suffocate: not really funny. Make sure you choose the right people before you unload 100 pounds of marshmallows. Someone who pranked you is good, but choosing someone who did something evil works best, since lots of other people will enjoy it as well, and maybe even help out. There is no better feeling than pranking someone who deserves it.

Most importantly, be creative. RAs (and maybe even Public Safety) are less likely to stop you if you're really creative. People also remember the stuff that makes them say "I can't believe they thought of that!" or "How did they pull that off?" Don't let difficulty stop you. The next time someone tells you an awesome prank can't be done because it's "impossible", do it… to them, if possible. Those are, by far, the best pranks of all.

Now then… prank on!