What are the guidelines for creating a new Wikipedia page?
Creating a new Wikipedia page requires adherence to specific guidelines designed to ensure the quality and reliability of the content on the site. First and foremost, the subject of the article must demonstrate notability, meaning it should have received significant coverage in reliable, independent sources. This is essential because Wikipedia is an encyclopedia, and only notable topics are typically encompassed.
One should conduct thorough research to gather references from reputable publications, such as newspapers, academic journals, or books that provide in-depth information about the subject. These references will be vital for establishing notability and supporting the information contained in the article.
The next step involves compiling the article in a neutral and factual manner. Wikipedia emphasizes a neutral point of view, so it is crucial to present information fairly without taking sides. Articles should be written in a straightforward manner, avoiding promotional language and personal opinions.
Before creating a new article, it is advisable to check if a similar topic already exists. Sometimes, merging information into an existing article is more beneficial than creating an entirely new one. Wikipedia also encourages potential contributors to draft their articles in their user space first. This approach allows for revisions and improvements before moving the article into the main space.
When ready to publish, the article should be submitted to the community for review. New pages may be subject to scrutiny by experienced editors who will evaluate the content for adherence to Wikipedia's guidelines. It is essential to be prepared for constructive criticism and be willing to make adjustments based on feedback received.
For additional and up-to-date information, one can visit Wikipedia's official guidelines, which detail the process extensively and provide resources to assist new contributors in the creation of articles.
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