Learn something new, share what you know.
wikiHow is a collaborative online resource with a mission to teach anyone in the world how to do anything. With millions of articles and growing, wikiHow relies on contributions from writers like you to expand its content library and reach new audiences.
Navigating the WikiHow Style Guide
Writing a new article on wikiHow is an exciting endeavor, and ensuring its adherence to the platform’s style guide is crucial for clarity and consistency. First and foremost, prioritize clarity and conciseness in your writing. Use simple language that is easy for a wide audience to understand, avoiding jargon or technical terms whenever possible. Furthermore, maintain a neutral and objective tone throughout your article. Avoid expressing personal opinions or beliefs, and instead, focus on providing factual information and practical advice.
When it comes to formatting, adhere to wikiHow’s established conventions. Use short paragraphs, typically consisting of one to three sentences each, to enhance readability. Bulleted lists are an effective way to present information in a clear and organized manner, particularly for steps, tips, or examples. Visual aids, such as images and videos, can greatly enhance the reader’s understanding. However, ensure that all visual content is relevant, high-quality, and properly attributed.
In terms of content organization, begin with an engaging introduction that clearly states the purpose and scope of the article. Proceed to present the information in a logical and sequential order, using clear transitions to guide the reader. Each step or section should build upon the previous one, creating a cohesive and comprehensive whole. Importantly, all information presented must be accurate and well-researched. Cite credible sources to support any claims or statistics, using wikiHow’s preferred citation style.
To ensure your article resonates with the intended audience, consider the reader’s perspective throughout the writing process. Anticipate their questions, concerns, and potential challenges, and address them proactively. Use a friendly and encouraging tone to create a supportive and helpful reading experience. Finally, before submitting your article, thoroughly proofread and edit your work. Check for any grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, or stylistic inconsistencies. It is often helpful to have another set of eyes review your article for clarity and accuracy. By following these guidelines, you can create a well-written and informative article that contributes meaningfully to the wikiHow platform.
Researching and Citing Sources on WikiHow
Writing a comprehensive and reliable article on wikiHow relies heavily on accurate and well-researched information. To ensure the credibility of your article, it is essential to engage in thorough research using reputable sources. Begin by identifying keywords related to your topic, which will help you navigate through the vast amount of information available online. Reputable sources, such as academic journals, government websites, and established news organizations, should be prioritized. These sources are typically written by experts in their respective fields and undergo rigorous fact-checking processes.
When evaluating potential sources, consider their objectivity, authority, and currency. A reputable source should present information in an unbiased manner, be written by an author with recognized expertise, and contain up-to-date information. It is crucial to avoid relying solely on personal blogs, forums, or websites with a clear bias. While these sources may provide some insights, they often lack the necessary editorial oversight and fact-checking procedures.
As you gather information, it is essential to maintain accurate records of your sources. This practice not only ensures that you can properly attribute the information you use but also allows readers to verify the credibility of your claims. For each source, note down the author’s name, publication title, date of publication, and the specific page numbers or URLs where you found the information.
Furthermore, it is important to distinguish between direct quotes and paraphrasing. When using direct quotes, enclose the copied text in quotation marks and provide an in-text citation immediately after the quote. Paraphrasing, on the other hand, involves restating the information in your own words while still attributing the ideas to the original source. Regardless of whether you quote directly or paraphrase, an in-text citation is necessary.
WikiHow follows a specific citation format, so familiarize yourself with the platform’s guidelines to ensure consistency. Typically, in-text citations include the author’s last name and the year of publication in parentheses. A complete list of references, including all the sources cited in your article, should be provided at the end of your article. By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to the creation of a well-researched and trustworthy article that benefits the entire wikiHow community.
Formatting and Illustrating Your WikiHow Article
Creating a comprehensive and engaging wikiHow article involves more than just well-written content. A clear and consistent format, along with illustrative elements, plays a crucial role in reader comprehension and engagement. To ensure your article is easily navigable and visually appealing, adhere to the established formatting guidelines.
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the standard wikiHow article structure. Each step should be presented as a concise, actionable instruction, starting with a verb in the infinitive form. For instance, instead of writing “You can add images,” phrase it as “Add images.” This consistent structure enhances readability and clarity. Furthermore, maintain a neutral third-person voice throughout the article, avoiding personal pronouns like “I” or “you.” This approach ensures objectivity and universality in your instructions.
To further enhance clarity, utilize formatting tools effectively. Bolding key terms within the steps helps readers quickly grasp the main points. However, use this sparingly to avoid overwhelming the reader. Additionally, numbered lists are ideal for presenting sequential steps or a series of related items. This structured format improves readability and comprehension, particularly for instructional content.
Visual aids, such as images and videos, are invaluable for demonstrating practical steps or illustrating complex concepts. When incorporating images, ensure they are high-quality, relevant to the content, and properly attributed. A clear and descriptive caption should accompany each image, providing context and further explanation. Videos, while not always necessary, can be highly effective for demonstrating dynamic processes. Embed videos from reputable sources, ensuring they are relevant, concise, and add value to the article.
Beyond the individual elements, maintaining consistency throughout the article is paramount. Use the same font style, size, and formatting for all headings, subheadings, and body text. This uniformity creates a visually appealing and professional aesthetic, enhancing readability and user experience. Furthermore, proofread your article meticulously for any grammatical errors, typos, or inconsistencies in formatting. A polished and error-free article reflects credibility and professionalism.
By adhering to these formatting and illustrative guidelines, you contribute to a cohesive and user-friendly platform. Remember, a well-structured and visually engaging article not only effectively conveys information but also enhances the overall reader experience.
Q&A
1. **Q: How do I choose a topic for a new wikiHow article?**
A: Choose a topic you’re knowledgeable about, that fills a gap in wikiHow’s content, and has the potential for clear, actionable steps.
2. **Q: What format should I follow when writing a wikiHow article?**
A: Follow the wikiHow style guide, using sections like “Steps,” “Tips,” “Warnings,” and including images or illustrations.
3. **Q: What happens after I submit my wikiHow article?**
A: Your article will be reviewed by experienced wikiHow editors who may offer feedback or suggestions for improvement before publication.Writing a wikiHow article allows you to share your expertise and help others learn new things. By following the platform’s guidelines, focusing on practical advice, and prioritizing clarity and accuracy, you can create a valuable resource that empowers readers and contributes to the wikiHow community.
