just sayin'... if the two "rules" were always followed, dots would not be necessary. However, if the two rules are followed and dots are added at the "T" junctions, then there is no possible ambiguity, and the schematic is more readable. So, do all three: make connections at "T" junctions ONLY, never make connections where wires cross, and "dot" all the "T" connections. I wonder if this is where some wag came up with the expression of "crossing all the eyes and dotting all the tees," instead of the usual, other way around, of "dotting all the eyes and crossing the tees" as an expression for completeness?
Oh, well... with the demise of the MAX232, I think this thread is ready to die too.