RationalWiki:Help/Etiquette

From RationalWiki

RationalWiki has no (well not many (well not a lot of (alright! absolutely loads of))) rules. There is, however, a definite etiquette when it comes to editing existing articles.

If in doubt - don't.

• Minor edit (spelling, grammar, adding refs/cats etc.):

If it's an idiomatic difference (American vs. Real English, say) then pass by on the other side.

If it's intended to be humorous as it stands - respect others' warped minds and ignore it (unless you think that you can improve the comic intent).

If you still want to edit then go ahead.

Don't forget to check "This is a minor edit" and explain ("sp"," typo","ref", etc.) in the "Summary" box.

• Non-controversial edit (explanatory sentence or paragraph or clarification of ambiguity):

If your amendment doesn't materially alter the tone, meaning or direction of the article then do it.

Leave "This is a minor edit" unchecked and give a short explanation in the "Summary" box.

• Controversial edit:

Explain your point in the article's "Discussion" (talk) page. Wait for replies. Then go with the flow.

Contact the Author (assuming that one person is responsible for the bulk of the article - check in "History") by commenting in their "talk" page. Again wait for reply and discuss on the article's "talk" page.

If you cannot agree on an amendment it might be that alternate points should be made in the same article or a new article, cross-referenced, might be the best solution.

Don't start an "edit war", it's ugly, time wasting and counterproductive. (although sometimes amusing to third parties.)

Don't be afraid of ridicule: you're as entitled to your stupid brilliant opinion as anyone else.

[edit] See Also

• About "Edit Summaries"

Help pages for RationalWiki
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