Okay, after reading the comments about xman, consider most of this for the benefit of pre 1Ls or others who
genuinely have this concern.
Number 6 is the golden rule. My opinion is - steer clear of that and you're basically good. I think whatever personality trait that results in a student breaking that particular rule has predetermined their fate in life anyway. The other five are hit and miss. For example I've seen students monopolize a great deal of class time by starting (and continuing) an extremely interesting line on point - and they weren't viewed as gunners at all. Just ask yourself this: Am I asking a question or making a comment because I'm engaged and well prepared or am I doing the same because I want everyone to know how smart I am. If it's the latter, stop immediately and punch yourself square in the genitals. And then apply to medical school.
And no, if I felt like the perception of me was as a douchey know it all, then I wouldn't ignore it, I'd freaking stop being douchey. My flip kindergarten remark was directed at your feeling that you need a "response" in the first place. What, are they taunting you in the halls? Posting "kick me" signs on your back? If you've truly done some of the things that stole listed and you've done them obviously with the intention of showing off, then your response is to stop. Just stop doing that and focus on coming from a good place.
But alas, I could have spared myself the last ten minutes and, like stole, quoted you back the following:
"
distinguishing myself early and often and quickly was paramount"
If you're honestly seeking advice, stop seeking it, because there's no advice on earth capable of curing that.
Argh, typed out a long post.
Gist of it was:
1) Maybe your comments aren't as valuable as you think they are. Take a step back and honestly re-evaluate how smart you are and how valuable your comments are. Be your own critic and be honest.
2) Maybe other people are jealous because you actually are smart. No matter. Making people feel at ease, complying with social norms, and being well-liked are all important in firm life and the law. Work on those skills.
3) Set a limit for yourself. (One comment per class.) If you find you have a hard time staying within that limit, ask yourself why. Is it because you are so engaged? Or is it because you feel your insights are so brilliant that others should hear them? Or because you want affirmation or attention?
4) Don't answer the easy questions. I get annoyed when obviously advanced people raise their hand for every question; easy or not. Save your comments for complex questions that most engage you; leave easier questions for other people to build their confidence on.
5) Don't monopolize class time. Everyone else is paying $30k a year too for law school, not just you. If you find you just love to talk about the subject, form a study group or visit the professor after hours. Do additional reading in law review articles suggested in the book to engage the material more.
6) Don't answer a question "Correctly" right after another classmate took a stab and failed. The person waiving their hand to immediately correct a "dumb" response looks like they're trying to pump themselves up at the expense of someone else.