Difference between revisions of "Powerbase:Contributing"

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< [[SpinProfiles:About|About SpinProfiles]]<br>
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{{Powerbase:Help}}[[Powerbase:About|About Powerbase]]<br>
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''Related:'' [[SpinProfiles:Purpose|SpinProfiles's Purpose]]
 
  
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This site is built by ordinary wise people, like you. You don't need any special credentials to participate -- we shun [[SpinProfiles:Credentialism|credentialism]] along with other [[SpinProfiles:Propaganda Techniques|propaganda techniques]]. It's the fact that it ''is'' open to everyone that makes these articles ever-improving, as we review and build on each other's work.  Although no one is free of [[Spinprofiles:Bias|bias]], we can cancel each other's out to a large degree, and deal with any [[Spinprofiles:Systematic Bias|systemic bias]] remaining by policy measures.
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This site is built by ordinary wise people, like you. You don't need any special credentials to participate -- we shun [[Powerbase:Credentialism|credentialism]] along with other [[Powerbase:Propaganda Techniques|propaganda techniques]]. It's the fact that it ''is'' open to everyone that makes these articles ever-improving, as we review and build on each other's work.  
  
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So, you can just dive right in and work on any article you like!  You can edit any article directly, or if you want to add your thoughts, questions or comments about an article, you can go to the article's [[SpinProfiles:Talk page|talk page]] (click on the 'Discuss the page' link in the sidebar or at the bottom of the article).  You need to 'log in' in order to edit. This is quick and easy, just email editor@spinprofiles to register.  
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So, you can just dive right in and work on any article you like!  You can edit any article directly, or if you want to add your thoughts, questions or comments about an article, you can go to the article's [[Powerbase:Talk Page|talk page]] (click on the 'Discussion' link at the top of the page).  You need to 'log in' in order to edit. This is quick and easy: email editor AT Powerbase.info to register.  
  
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To work together effectively in building the encyclopedia, the SpinProfiles community has some established [[SpinProfiles:Policy|policies and guidelines]].  An "encyclopedia of propaganda," by its very nature, is bound to attract controversy and debate. It is important, therefore, to write articles that focus on documented facts. Please include thorough references to documentation supporting the facts in your article, and avoid rhetorical or inflammatory language.  If you are using or defining a rhetorical or inflammatory term then explain it in an article where it can be put in context and balance introduced - redirect all references to competing terms to one place.  This is critical:  We want the SpinProfiles to be a useful information resource for journalists, activists and the general public, so please do not treat it as a debate forum. Any discussion about topics should be mainly directed at improving articles to the point where they are useful to journalists, the main consumer of our work.
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To work together effectively in building the encyclopedia, the Powerbase community has some established policies.  An "encyclopedia of propaganda," by its very nature, is bound to attract controversy and debate. It is important, therefore, to write articles that focus on documented facts.  
  
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New contributors are always welcome to SpinProfiles, and you are encouraged to [[Spinprofiles:Be Bold In Editing Pages|be bold in editing pages]].  You don't have to worry too much about making mistakes, as all contributions are monitored by other contributors at the [[special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] page.
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Please include thorough [[Powerbase:A Guide to Referencing|references]] to documentation supporting the facts in your article, and avoid rhetorical or inflammatory language.
  
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We would suggest you familiarise yourself with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/News_style News style] writing, which is, simply: ''put the important material first, and then the rest in descending order of importance.'' And watch your [[Spinprofiles:Point Of View|point of view]]!  If you are taking a position on an issue, take it early and overtly so others can see your declared [[Spinprofiles:Bias|bias]]. In time we expect [[Spinprofiles:Multiple Points Of View|multiple points of view]] to fully develop and compete in a lively non-violent fashion.
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If you are using a rhetorical or inflammatory term, then define it and explain it in an article where it can be put in context and balance introduced.  We want Powerbase to be a useful information resource for journalists, activists and the general public, so please do not treat it as a debate forum. Any discussion about topics should be mainly directed at improving articles to the point where they are useful to journalists, the main consumer of our work.
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New contributors are always welcome to Powerbase, and you are encouraged to be bold in editing pages. Please try to be accurate in your additions. This is far more important than a polished writing style, as it is easy for others to correct grammar and typing mistakes, but checking facts is laborious. While some newly added and updated articles are monitored by other contributors at the [[special:RecentChanges|Recent changes]] page, it is not possible to check them all.
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We would suggest you employ news style writing, which is, simply: ''put the important material first, and then the rest in descending order of importance.'' If you are taking a position on an issue, take it early and overtly so others can see your declared bias. In time we expect multiple points of view to fully develop and compete in a lively non-violent fashion.
  
 
We hope you have fun!
 
We hope you have fun!
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* [http://www.prwatch.org/prwissues/2003Q4/starting.html Getting Started on SpinProfiles]
 
  
 
==What is "wiki"?==
 
==What is "wiki"?==
  
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A [[w:WikiWiki|WikiWiki]] is a collection of interlinked web pages, any of which can be visited and edited by anyone at any time ([[w:collaborative software|collaborative software]]). The concept and software was invented by [[w:|Ward Cunningham]]. You can even edit the page you are reading right now; just click "Edit this page" (to the left or below) on this page! However, if you don't have anything to add or correct here, and you just want to see the Wiki in action, edit the [[SpinProfiles:Sandbox]] page instead of this one. See also [[SpinProfiles:Editing FAQ]] and [[w:What is a wiki for|What is a wiki for?]]
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A wiki is a collection of interlinked web pages, any of which can be visited and edited by anyone at any time. The concept and software was invented by Ward Cunningham. Powerbase is based upon this concept and anyone, including you, can contribute and edit by simply sending an email to editor AT Powerbase.info to register as a User. Then it's as simple as just clicking "Edit this page" (to the left or below) on the page you want to contribute to! However, if you want to practice first or just want to see the Wiki in action, edit the [[Powerbase:Sandbox]] page instead. See also [[Powerbase:How To Edit A Page|How to edit a page]].
  
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==Trust, vandalism and bias on SpinProfiles==
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==Trust, vandalism and bias on Powerbase==
  
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===What if someone tries to vandalize or insert disinformation into the SpinProfiles itself?===
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===What if someone tries to vandalize or insert disinformation into the Powerbase itself?===
  
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The [http://www.prwatch.org Center for Media and Democracy], which sponsors the SpinProfiles, has other channels through which we can expose and embarrass people who attempt to manipulate its content, such as the [http://www.prwatch.org/spin/index.html Spin of the Day] and [http://www.prwatch.org/cmd/subscribe_sotd.html Weekly Spin] features of the PR Watch web site. The SpinProfiles software includes a number of features that make it possible to detect and manage vandalism. In keeping with our philosophy of creating a community-based "information commons," these features enable the entire community of Internet users to collaborate in overseeing its content, in effect serving as a sort of online "neighborhood watch committee":
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The [http://www.prwatch.org Center for Media and Democracy], which sponsors Powerbase, has other channels through which we can expose and embarrass people who attempt to manipulate its content, such as the [http://www.prwatch.org/spin/index.html Spin of the Day] and [http://www.prwatch.org/cmd/subscribe_sotd.html Weekly Spin] features of the PR Watch web site. The Powerbase software includes a number of features that make it possible to detect and manage vandalism. In keeping with our philosophy of creating a community-based "information commons," these features enable the entire community of Internet users to collaborate in overseeing its content, in effect serving as a sort of online "neighbourhood watch committee":
  
 
#Visitors to the site need to create [[Special:Userlogin|individual user IDs]]. This makes it easy to track the editing activities of each logged-in user.  
 
#Visitors to the site need to create [[Special:Userlogin|individual user IDs]]. This makes it easy to track the editing activities of each logged-in user.  
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#Logged-in users can create their own individual "watch lists" that let them keep an eye on articles that they feel deserve particular monitoring. They can also call up a list of all [[Special:Recentchanges|recent changes to the entire site]].
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#Logged-in Users can create their own individual "watch lists" that let them keep an eye on articles that they feel deserve particular monitoring. They can also call up a list of all [[Special:Recentchanges|recent changes to the entire site]].
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#The software keeps an archive of all past versions of each article, making it easy to undo malicious or misguided changes by reverting to a previous version.
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#The software keeps an archive of past versions of each article, making it easy to undo malicious or misguided changes by reverting to a previous version.
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#Trusted users can be given "sysop" status, which lets them ban users who engage in vandalism. If a particular page becomes a target for repeat vandalism attempts, sysops can also mark that page as "protected," so that only other sysops can change it. (To request sysop status, send an email, specifying your user ID name, to editor@spinprofiles.org.)
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#If a User sees activity on the site that they believe is vandalism, they can email management AT Powerbase.info and sysop AT Powerbase.info with as much detail as possible.
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#There will be some means of public accountability of the sysops and others with special priveleges, for now by notifying editor@spinprofiles.org of activities you consider to be endangering the public policy purpose of the service as it is mandated above.
 
  
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===Since anyone can contribute information, why should anyone trust the SpinProfiles as authoritative?===
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===Since anyone can contribute information, why should anyone trust the Powerbase as authoritative?===
  
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As the authors of a book titled [http://www.prwatch.org/books/experts.html Trust Us, We&#8217;re Experts], SpinProfiles creators [http://www.prwatch.org/bios.html Sheldon Rampton and John Stauber] have given quite a bit of thought to the question of what makes information credible. The SpinProfiles intentionally avoids invoking "trusted authority figures." Instead, its credibility will depend on the degree to which articles are well-written and backed with supporting documentation, terms of art from "less social" sciences where these are applicable, and the degree to which credibility specialists themselves feel they can stake their credibility on trusting it.
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As the authors of a book titled [http://www.prwatch.org/books/experts.html Trust Us, We&#8217;re Experts], [http://www.prwatch.org/bios.html Sheldon Rampton and John Stauber] have given quite a bit of thought to the question of what makes information credible. Powerbase intentionally avoids invoking "trusted authority figures." Instead, its credibility will depend on the degree to which articles are well-written and backed with supporting documentation and the degree to which those to whom credibility is important feel they can trust it.
  
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===How will SpinProfiles address questions of bias, particularly with regard to controversial topics?===
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===How will Powerbase address questions of bias, particularly with regard to controversial topics?===
  
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Rather than using the terminology of "objectivity" or a "neutral point of view," we prefer the concepts of "fairness and accuracy." It is "fair and accurate," for example, to say that most climate scientists believe human activities are contributing to global warming, so there is no need to take a "neutral point of view" with regard to this question. Of course, bias is an issue in any information system, but SpinProfiles&#8217;s users will constitute a community of peers whose combined influence helps compensate for the bias of single individuals.  Systemic bias, e.g. due to contributor psychographics or demographics, will be overcome by a variety of measures to promote equity of viewpoints.
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Rather than using the terminology of "objectivity" or a "neutral point of view," we prefer the concepts of "fairness and accuracy." It is "fair and accurate," for example, to say that most climate scientists believe human activities are contributing to global warming, so there is no need to take a "neutral point of view" with regard to this question. Of course, bias is an issue in any information system, but Powerbase&#8217;s users will constitute a community of peers whose combined influence helps compensate for the bias of single individuals.  Systemic bias, e.g. due to contributor psychographics or demographics, will be overcome by a variety of measures to promote equity of viewpoints.
  
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As an &#8220;encyclopedia of propaganda,&#8221; the SpinProfiles is bound to deal with controversial topics. However, the [[w:Wikipedia:Wikipedia|Wikipedia]] system upon which it is based has shown considerable ability to produce articles that examine controversial topics in a fair and accurate way.  Indeed, some of the most controversial topics yield the best articles, e.g. [[w:Capitalism|capitalism]].
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As an &#8220;encyclopedia of propaganda,&#8221; Powerbase is bound to deal with controversial topics. However, the wiki system upon which it is based has shown considerable ability to produce articles that examine controversial topics in a fair and accurate way.  Indeed, some of the most controversial topics yield the best articles.
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The use of [[Spinprofiles:Templates|templates]] regarding bias has been discussed. The templates would allow any contributor to inform others with a simple message box that they believe the article should be checked for fairness or accuracy. The idea, however, is still in discussion and message boxes are not used.
 
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==Can I add Wikipedia articles to SpinProfiles?==
 
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Sure, and vice versa -- but please bear in mind that the purposes and editorial policies of SpinProfiles and Wikipedia are somewhat different, so an article that is appropriate for one may not be appropriate for the other. See [[SpinProfiles:Differences Between SpinProfiles And Wikipedia|Differences between SpinProfiles and Wikipedia]].
 
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An article imported from one site to the other should usually be accompanied by a hyperlink back to the original.  The reason is that neither SpinProfiles nor Wikipedia places its contents in the public domain.  Instead, articles on both sites are licensed under the [[Spinprofiles:GNU Free Documentation License|GNU Free Documentation License]].  The constraints of that license are minimal, but they do exist.
 
  
 
== How can I contribute?==
 
== How can I contribute?==
  
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By [[SpinProfiles:How To Edit A Page|editing pages]], [[SpinProfiles:How to Start a Page|creating new pages]], [[SpinProfiles:Publicity|publicizing SpinProfiles]], and many [[SpinProfiles:Contributing|other]] [[SpinProfiles:How To Add Content To SpinProfiles With Minimal Effort|ways]].
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By [[Powerbase:How To Edit A Page|editing pages]], [[Powerbase:How to Start a Page|creating new pages]], [[Powerbase:Publicity|publicizing Powerbase]], and many [[Powerbase:Contributing|other]] [[Powerbase:Things you can do to help|ways]].
  
 
==Registration==
 
==Registration==
 
===Do I have to register to edit pages?===
 
===Do I have to register to edit pages?===
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Yes. CMD began requiring registration to deal with excessive vandalism and to introduce a small measure of accountability for what users post on the wiki.
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Yes. [[Powerbase:How_to_Register_as_a_User|Registration]] and the use of your real name introduces a small measure of accountability for material posted on Powerbase.
  
 
===What's the point of registering?===
 
===What's the point of registering?===
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Email the SpinProfiles editor <mailto:editor@spinprofiles.org> to register for your own user ID. Beyond being able to edit pages, you also get the following features:
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Email management AT Powerbase.info to [[Powerbase:How_to_Register_as_a_User|register]] for your own user ID. This enables you to edit and contribute material and gives the following additional benefits:
  
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:* It allows you to set and save SpinProfiles preferences.
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* It allows you to set and save Powerbase preferences.
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:* It credits you in the article history, as well as on the [[special:Recent Changes|Recent Changes]] page, with changes you make.
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* It credits you in the article history, as well as on the Recent Changes page, with changes you make.
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:* You get a personal SpinProfiles page in the User: namespace. You can use this as a spot to tell people about yourself, list the articles you've worked on, or your personal sandbox for SpinProfiles work.
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* You get a personal Powerbase User page. You can use this to tell people about yourself and list the articles you've worked on.
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: Finally, it is much easier for your fellow SpinProfiles to interact with you if you have a name.  
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* It is much easier for your fellow Powerbase to interact with you if you have a name.  
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: Once you have an ID, you are invited to add yourself to the list of [[SpinProfiles:SpinProfilesns|SpinProfilesns]].
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* Once you have a User name and password, you are invited to add yourself to the email list for editors. Email management AT Powerbase.info
  
 
===Do I have to use my real name?===
 
===Do I have to use my real name?===
 
Yes, real names are required.
 
Yes, real names are required.
  
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==Types of pages and articles on SpinProfiles==
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==Types of pages and articles on Powerbase==
 
===What's the difference between a page and an article?===
 
===What's the difference between a page and an article?===
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The term "page" encompasses all the material on SpinProfiles, including encyclopedia topics, talk pages, documentation, and special pages such as [[Special:Recentchanges|Recent Changes]]. "Article" is a narrower term refering to a page containing an encyclopedia entry. Thus, all articles are pages, but not all pages are articles.  
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The term "page" encompasses all the material on Powerbase, including encyclopedia topics, talk pages, documentation, and special pages such as [[Special:Recentchanges|Recent Changes]]. "Article" is a narrower term refering to a page containing an encyclopedia entry. Thus, all articles are pages, but not all pages are articles.  
  
 
===What is an orphan?===  
 
===What is an orphan?===  
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An orphan is an article that no other article links to. These can still be found by searching the SpinProfiles, but it is preferable to find another article where a link can be added. You can find a list of orphan articles [[Special:Lonelypages|here]].
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An orphan is an article that no other article links to. These can still be found by searching the Powerbase, but it is preferable to find another article where a link can be added. You can find a list of orphan articles [[Special:Lonelypages|here]].
  
 
===What is a stub?===
 
===What is a stub?===
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A stub on SpinProfiles is a very short article, generally of one paragraph or less. Most people hate stubs, even though they are a probably a necessary evil. Many excellent articles started out as short stubs. Existing stubs should be expanded into proper articles: there is a hand-made list at [[SpinProfiles:Find or fix a stub]], and a generated list at [[special:Shortpages|Shortpages]].
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A stub on Powerbase is a very short article, generally of one paragraph or less. Most people hate stubs, even though they are a probably a necessary evil. Many excellent articles started out as short stubs. Existing stubs should be expanded into proper articles: see [[Powerbase:Find or fix a stub]], and a generated list at [[special:Shortpages|Shortpages]].
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===What is disambiguation?===
 
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Check out this link for details [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disambiguation Wikipedia Disambiguation].  
 
  
 
==Editing features==
 
==Editing features==
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===What is a minor edit? When should I use it?===
 
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When editing a page, one has the option of flagging the edit as a "minor edit". When to use this is somewhat a matter of personal preference. The rule of thumb is that an edit of a page that is spelling corrections, formatting, and simple rearranging of text should be flagged as a "minor edit".  A major edit is basically something that makes the entry worth relooking at--either through substantial additions or reorganisation--or fixes a major error.
 
  
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This feature is important, because users can choose to ''hide'' minor edits in their view of the Recent Changes page, to keep the volume of edits down to a manageable level.
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===How do I edit a page?===
  
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===What is "Recent Changes", and what do the abbreviations used there mean?===
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:It's quite simple. Once you have [[Powerbase:Register|registered]], familiarise yourself with Powerbase [[Powerbase:Editorial Policy|Editorial Policy]], then it's simply a case of clicking on the "Edit this page" at the top of the page you want to contribute to and type away. See [[Powerbase:How To Edit A Page|How to edit a page]] to learn about making links, using '''bold''' and ''italics'', linking to images, and many other things...
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The notations on "Recent Changes" are "N" for new page (new pages often attract a bunch of copyedits); the "M" stands for "Minor edit" or "minor change", which you can set by checking the check box labelled "This is a minor edit" when you edit a page. If you check your "Preferences", you can suppress minor changes in the Recent Changes List. Checking this box is a courtesy to people who suppress seeing minor changes -- check the box if the change is a simple spelling or grammar change.
 
  
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==The Zen of editing==
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[[Powerbase:How To Edit A Page|How to edit a page]] gives you step by step guidelines for creating a page/article.  
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===Are there any standard formats, for things like dates for example?===
 
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For this and other style questions, see the [[SpinProfiles:Manual of Style]].
 
  
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===What do I do if I find two articles on the same subject?===
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If you prefer a quick, rather than detailed guide, then see Powerbase [[Powerbase:Quick Guide to Editing| Quick Guide to Editing]]
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Well, you could merge them yourself if you are feeling [[SpinProfiles:Be Bold In Updating Pages|bold]]. Pick the [[SpinProfiles:Naming Conventions|most suitable page name]] (which may not necessarily be one of the existing ones!). If you're not sure which name to use, or whether the two articles should really be merged, mention it on the talk page of one of them (and put a quick note with a link on the talk page of the other), and see what other people think. You can also make a mention of the problem on the list of [[SpinProfiles:Duplicate Articles]].
 
  
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<div id="SplittingArticles">
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===Are there any standard formats, for things like dates for example?===
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===What is the ideal/maximum length of an article?  When should an article be split into smaller pieces?===
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For this and other style questions, see the [[Powerbase:Manual of Style]].
  
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Separate stub sub-articles for each area of a topic can be very inconvenient for the reader to be chasing stubs that don't say very much.  Articles seem to have clearly diminished technical performance when they exceed 32K in length.  A rule of thumb: >30K must be divided; 20K-30K probably should be divided; 10K-20K consider dividing if the subject conveniently warrants; <10K don't bother.  Size is only one factor; a 30K article with no likelihood for increased size is probably fine the way it is.
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===How do I rename a page?===
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</div>
 
  
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===Can we debate or talk about the subjects here?===
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:Registered users can move a page; this moves the page content and edit history to a new title, and creates a redirecting page at the old title. This method is better than just copying the content by hand, as it preserves the article's history. Use the "Move this page" link. If you want to move a page, please click the "What links here" and fix the links to the page in question. See [[Powerbase:How To Rename (Move) A Page|How to rename (move) a page]].
  
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This is an encyclopedia that strives to present subjects [[SpinProfiles:Fairness And Accuracy|fairly and accurately]]. Discussion intended to improve articles is welcome here, however; it takes place in the Talk: pages attached to every article.
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===What is "Recent Changes", and what do the abbreviations used there mean?===
  
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'''I've found vandalism, or I've damaged a page by mistake! How can I restore it?'''
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: The notations on "Recent Changes" are "N" for new page (new pages often attract a bunch of copyedits); the "M" stands for "Minor edit" or "minor change", which you can set by checking the check box labelled "This is a minor edit" when you edit a page. If you check your "Preferences", you can suppress minor changes in the Recent Changes List. Checking this box is a courtesy to people who suppress seeing minor changes -- check the box if the change is a simple spelling or grammar change.
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: Click on the "Older versions" link. Find the last good version of the page (it helps to use a browser with multiple tabs). Edit this ''old'' version (you'll get a warning that you're editing an old version at the top of the edit box). Save this text -- it will become the new current version.
 
  
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'''Which languages can I use?'''
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===Can I change the default number of contributions displayed in the "My contributions" list?===
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:On the English SpinProfiles, English! If you would like to set up a SpinProfiles in another language, be our guest.
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Currently not. You can, however, change the setting ''on the page'' and bookmark the resulting page.
  
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'''American English, I presume, not British English?'''
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==Copyrights==
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:Why presume that? People are writing in all sorts of English. This isn't necessarily a bad situation, either. Of course, the Americans aren't going to adjust their usage for the British, and God knows the British won't adjust theirs for the Americans. :-)
 
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:However, it is good form to keep usage consistent within a given article. A good rule to follow is to use U.S. English in articles on American topics, British English in articles on U.K. topics, and so on.
 
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:Use of one English variation in article titles can cause a ''Search'' in another variant to fail. In this case, it is recommended that you create a new article using the alternative spelling which is a redirect to the main article. Then, in order to prevent this redirect being an orphan, create a link to the redirect from the top of the ''Talk'' page of the main article.
 
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'''How do I spell-check a page?'''
 
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:A spell checker has been requested for SpinProfiles, but has not been implemented yet. When editing a larger article, it is in any event much more convenient to paste the text into your favorite [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Text_editor text editor] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Word_processor word processor] first, edit and spell check there, and then paste back into your browser to preview.
 
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:There is a [[SpinProfiles:List Of Common Misspellings|list of common misspellings]], which you can use to check if a listed misspelling is on any page in the database. Unlike a spell checker, an unrecognized word is considered correct.
 
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'''Why are some links red? What are the ? links?'''
 
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: They both indicate that a page with that name has not yet been started. Which one you see depends on your [[Special:Preferences]]. If you have "Highlight links to empty topics" checked, you'll see red links. Otherwise, you get the little blue question marks.
 
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:Either way, you can click on that link and start a page with that name. But be careful -- there may already be articles on similar topics, or an article on the same topic under a different name. It's pretty important to hunt around for similar topics first. See [[SpinProfiles:Naming Conventions]] for information on naming pages.
 
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'''Ok, what about the green links?'''
 
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:Those are external links; i.e. those that link to pages outside SpinProfiles.
 
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'''What happens when two users edit a page at the same time?'''
 
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: This is called an "edit conflict". You'll get a conflict screen that displays both versions in separate windows, along with a summary highlighting the differences, and instructions on how you should proceed.  It's virtually impossible to lose any data.
 
  
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'''How do I learn about changes to certain topics without having to go there from time to time?'''
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The goal of Powerbase is to create information that is available to everyone. The realities of modern copyright law demand that we pay attention to legal issues to ensure that our work can be made available and to protect the project from legal liability. Powerbase entries is licensed to the public under the [[Powerbase:GNU Free Documentation License|GNU Free Documentation License]] (GFDL).
  
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:If you are a logged-in user, on every page you will see a link that says "Watch this article". If you click on it, the article will be added to your [[special:Watchlist|personal watchlist]]. You watchlist will show you the latest changes on your watched articles.
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See [[Powerbase:Copyrights|Powerbase copyright policy]] for more details and guidelines on copyrights.
  
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'''What file formats should I use for pictures/sounds/videos?'''
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==Libel==
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:For images, use [[JPEG]] for photographs, and [[PNG]] for drawings, logos and the like. [[GIF]] can be used instead of PNG, but it is discouraged because of patent reasons. [[Ogg Vorbis]] is prefered for sound; [[MP3]] is tolerated but also discouraged for the same reason as GIF. As for video, good question; it hasn't come up yet. See [[SpinProfiles:Image Use Policy]] for more.
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Avoid accusations that are libelous. Just because something that is defamatory has been published elsewhere, it does not mean that you are immune from legal action. It just makes it less likely. Always try and use primary materials from authoratitive sources. See [[Powerbase:Libel|Powerbase Libel Policy]] for more details.
  
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'''One of the contributors is being unreasonable.  Help!'''
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<Center>'''Everyone who contributes to Powerbase is required to read and understand [[Powerbase:Libel|Powerbase Libel Policy]]'''</center>
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: See [[SpinProfiles:Staying Cool When The Editing Gets Hot|Staying cool when the editing gets hot]].
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<center><b>If you have not already done so - ''Read it now!''</b></center> 
  
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'''Can I change the default number of contributions displayed in the "My contributions" list?'''
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==Tone==
 +
Try to be as factual as possible. Do not use abusive language or language that is in any way racist, sexist or obscene or could be construed as such. Do not use swear words unless in quotations. Keep any rhetoric or personal comment to a minimum and avoid speculation, innuendo or [[Powerbase:Libel|libel]].  If comment is provided please be fair. Being fair does not mean not being critical or adding some kind of analysis, though. Just try and strike the correct balance. You want the article to basically contain factual information about the person you are writing about, not your views on the person you are writing about. There is a difference between a profile entry and a blog entry or an opinion piece.
 +
Avoid generalizations and unsubstantiated sweeping statements.
  
−
: Currently not. You can, however, change the setting ''on the page'' and bookmark the resulting page.
+
If you are making accusations against a person or organization try and support it by as much primary material as possible. Just because someone else has said it is true, it does not mean it is true. Make sure your [[Powerbase:A Guide to Sourcing|sources]] are up to date, and relate to present day situation or indicate that they are historical.
  
−
==Links: External and International==
+
More details on Tone can be found on [[Powerbase:A Guide to the use of Tone|A Guide to the use of Tone]]. [[Powerbase:A Guide to Sourcing| A Guide to Sourcing]] also provides useful guidelines for the use of sources.
  
−
'''Is translating pages from other SpinProfiles that have more information than ours a good way to add to the project in general?'''
+
==Using images==
−
: Yes, it's a good idea to cross-pollinate.
+
Images can enrich and liven up articles.  
  
−
'''Is it OK to link to other sites, as long as the material is not copied onto SpinProfiles?'''
+
When adding images, please first refer to Powerbase [[Powerbase:Image Use Policy and Guidelines|Image Use Policy and Guidelines]]
−
:External links are just fine. Arguably, they increase the usability of SpinProfiles. Keep in mind, however, that SpinProfiles is not a web directory; external links should support the content of the article, not replace it. The current convention is to place external links in a separate section at the bottom of the article. However, sometimes they are placed within the article as a footnote. See [[SpinProfiles:How To Edit A Page|How to edit a page ]] for different ways to create external links.
 
  
−
==Copyrights==
+
==I've found vandalism, or I've damaged a page by mistake! How can I restore it?==
 +
Click on the "Older versions" link. Find the last good version of the page (it helps to use a browser with multiple tabs). Edit this ''old'' version (you'll get a warning that you're editing an old version at the top of the edit box). Save this text -- it will become the new current version. See [[Powerbase:Vandalism|Powerbase guidelines on vandalism]] for further information should you find vandalism on a page.
  
−
'''I have, or can get, special permission to copy an image or article to SpinProfiles. Is it OK to do that?'''
+
==One of the contributors is being unreasonable. Help!==
−
:The text and images of SpinProfiles are covered by the [[GNU Free Documentation License]]. Unless an item is covered by the same or a similar license, or is in the public domain, it cannot be used on SpinProfiles. So you have to ask the copyright holder of the material to license it under GFDL.
+
See [[Powerbase:Etiquette|Etiquette]] and [[Powerbase:Dispute Resolution|Dispute Resolution]] for Powerbase policy and advice.
−
 
 
−
'''I have an out-of-copyright image (or text) that is reproduced in an in-copyright book. Can I scan / type it into SpinProfiles?'''
 
−
: Providing they haven't altered the image then they can't claim a copyright on it. If it was in the public domain before they used it, it's still in the public domain afterward.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Does using a [[GIF]] image in SpinProfiles violate the GFDL because of its patent?'''
 
−
 
 
−
:The [[LZW]] compression algorithm used with the GIF format is patented. It is nevertheless legally permissable to produce gif's and release them under [[GFDL]], just like it is legal to produce a [[CD-ROM]] with GFDL material even though the CD-ROM format is patented. People who write or use gif creation programs are bound by the patent. That is why [[SpinProfiles:Free Software|free software]] generally does not support the format anymore. That being said, we encourage SpinProfilesns to use the technically superior and patent-free [[PNG]] format instead of GIF.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Under the copyright law in Japan, copyright holders ''cannot'' make their works public domain, therefore there is no public domain in materials covered by Japanese copyright law. What can I do?'''
 
−
 
 
−
:Technically, there is still expiration in Japan too. So if the works exceeded expiration term, they are considered public domain. Otherwise, they cannot be public domain.
 
−
 
 
−
==Using images and other media==
 
−
Images, movies and sound files enrich and liven up articles. Some resources:
 
−
* SpinProfiles help page on [[SpinProfiles:Uploading Images & PDFs|uploading images and PDF files]].
 
−
* Lifehacker's [http://www.lifehacker.com/software/creative-commons/geek-to-live--6-ways-to-find-reusable-media-197538.php guide to finding uncopyrighted media].
 
−
* [http://imageafter.com/images.php Image*After], an online database of free images and textures that can be used on SpinProfiles and other sites.
 
  
 
==Miscellaneous==
 
==Miscellaneous==
−
'''SpinProfiles is great but I no longer have a life. I feel the urge to spread this affliction to my fellow human beings. How do I spread the word?'''
+
===How do I spread the word?===
−
: See [[SpinProfiles:Building SpinProfiles Membership]] for some ideas.
+
'''Powerbase is great but I no longer have a life. I feel the urge to spread this affliction to my fellow human beings. How do I spread the word?'''
−
 
+
:See [[Powerbase:Publicity]] for some ideas.
−
'''How do I edit a page?'''
 
−
 
 
−
:It's quite simple. Simply click "Edit this page" on the bottom or the side of the page, and type away. See [[SpinProfiles:How To Edit A Page|How to edit a page]] to learn about making links, using '''bold''' and ''italics'', linking to images, and many other things...
 
−
 
 
−
'''How do I make links?'''
 
−
: A link is just the name of the page surrounded by double square brackets. It's also possible to make the link display text that is different to the link:
 
−
:<nowiki>[[page name]]</nowiki>
 
−
:<nowiki>[[page name]]s</nowiki> -- suffix text will display as part of the link
 
−
:<nowiki>[[page name|display name]]</nowiki> -- hide the page name and display something else (but use this sparingly, and ''never'' "click here"!)
 
−
:<nowiki>[[page name (disambiguation)|]]</nowiki> -- the "pipe trick": the part in parentheses will not be displayed.
 
−
 
 
−
'''How do I delete a page?'''
 
−
 
 
−
:Consideration for others demands that you exercise extreme caution in doing so. Think about what you are trying to accomplish. [[SpinProfiles:SpinProfilesns|SpinProfilesns]] generally discourage deleting information from the encyclopedia unless there is a good reason for it. Please review [[SpinProfiles:Policy On Permanent Deletion Of Pages]] before taking action.
 
−
 
 
−
:It is trivial to delete the text from a page. You can click the edit link, erase all of the text, and click save. However, this is rarely helpful, as the page's history is still available, and anyone can restore the text again.
 
−
 
 
−
:Usually (but not always), rather than deleting a page, the page should be redirected somewhere useful. If someone writes a nice article on 'JFK' it should be moved to 'John F Kennedy' (or similar) and a redirect put in place. See [[SpinProfiles:How To Edit A Page|How to edit a page]] to learn about redirects.
 
−
 
 
−
:To request that a page be permanently deleted, put the page title on [[SpinProfiles:Votes For Deletion|Votes for deletion]], with the reason why you think it should be deleted. At some point an [[SpinProfiles:Administrators|administrator]] will come by the page and decide to remove it for you. Unless someone else comes by and decides not to agree with you, of course.
 
−
 
 
−
'''How do I rename a page?'''
 
−
 
 
−
:Registered users can move a page; this moves the page content and edit history to a new title, and creates a redirecting page at the old title. This method is better than just copying the content by hand, as it preserves the article's history. Use the "Move this page" link. If you want to move a page, please click the "What links here" and fix the links to the page in question. See [[SpinProfiles:How To Rename (Move) A Page|How to rename (move) a page]].
 
−
 
 
−
'''How do I edit a redirect page?'''
 
−
 
 
−
:The easiest way to edit the redirected page is to click on the link you see at the top of the page after being redirected: "redirected from ...". For example, if you try to go to the [[Tobacco Industry Research Council]] page, you are redirected to the [[Council for Tobacco Research]] page. At the very top of that page, you will see a message: "(redirected from [[Tobacco Industry Research Council]])", Click on the [[Tobacco Industry Research Council]] link, and you will edit the redirect page page.
 
−
 
 
−
'''What is "Recent Changes", and what do the abbreviations used there mean?'''
 
−
 
 
−
: The notations on "Recent Changes" are "N" for new page (new pages often attract a bunch of copyedits); the "M" stands for "Minor edit" or "minor change", which you can set by checking the check box labelled "This is a minor edit" when you edit a page. If you check your "Preferences", you can suppress minor changes in the Recent Changes List. Checking this box is a courtesy to people who suppress seeing minor changes -- check the box if the change is a simple spelling or grammar change.
 
−
 
 
−
'''What is the ideal/maximum length of an article?  When should an article be split into smaller pieces?'''
 
−
 
 
−
:Separate stub sub-articles for each area of a topic can be very inconvenient for the reader to be chasing stubs that don't say very much.  Articles seem to have clearly diminished technical performance when they exceed 32K in length.  A rule of thumb: >30K must be divided; 20K-30K probably should be divided; 10K-20K consider dividing if the subject conveniently warrants; <10K don't bother.  Size is only one factor; a 30K article with no likelihood for increased size is probably fine the way it is.
 
−
 
 
−
''See also: [[SpinProfiles:Administrators]]''
 
−
 
 
−
'''What is an administrator? What is a sysop?'''
 
−
:Two words for the same thing. An administrator is simply a SpinProfiles user who can access the few restricted SpinProfiles software functions: deleting articles and uploaded files, protecting and unprotecting pages, blocking and unblocking IP addresses, and running certain direct [[SpinProfiles:Database Queries|database queries]].
 
  
−
'''How can I become an administrator?'''
+
===What is an administrator? What is a sysop?===
−
:It's easy. First, you need a user account. Then, make useful edits over a period of time. In this way, you prove to the community that you are here in good faith. Then, send a message to editor@spinprofiles.org and request sysop status. Voila! Be sure to read [[SpinProfiles:Administrators]] and [[SpinProfiles:Policy On Permanent Deletion Of Pages]], and use your new "powers" with caution.
+
Two words for the same thing. An administrator is simply a Powerbase user who can access the few restricted Powerbase software functions: deleting articles and uploaded files, protecting and unprotecting pages, blocking and unblocking IP addresses, and running certain direct database queries.
  
−
==Administrative Tasks==
+
===How can I become an administrator?===
−
'''How can I unban an IP?'''
+
If you wish to contribute to Powerbase as an administrator, you will first need to have a user account. Then, after making positive contributions to Powerbase over a period of time and proving to Powerbase community that you are here in good faith, it may be possible for you to become an administrator. Administrator status can be requested by sending a message to sysop AT Powerbase.info
−
:Select "Blocked IP addresses" from the drop-down box at the top of each page ([[Special:Ipblocklist]]), and click on "unblock" as required. Developers can unblock multiple IPs at once.
 
−
[[Category:SpinProfiles Help]]
 
−
[[Category:SpinProfiles policy and guideline pages]]
 
  
−
== External Links ==
+
[[Category:Powerbase Help]]
−
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/News_style] description of News style ways of writing from wikipedia.
 
−
* [http://www.prwatch.org] Centre for Media and Democracy Website.
 
−
* [http://www.prwatch.org/spin/index.html] PR Watch Spin of the Day article. 
 
−
* [http://www.prwatch.org/cmd/subscribe_sotd.html]  PR Watch Weekly Spin article.
 
−
* [http://www.prwatch.org/books/experts.html Trust Us, We&#8217;re Experts]Publication listed on Centre for Media and Democracy website
 
−
* [http://www.prwatch.org/bios.html] PR Watch Staff Biographies.
 
−
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disambiguation] description of Disambiguation from wikipedia.
 
−
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Text_editor] wikipedia guide to text.
 
−
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Word_processor] wikipedia guide to word processors.
 

Latest revision as of 22:55, 9 November 2010

Help Guide

How do I do that?

Getting in touch

Information and resources for contributors

About Powerbase

This site is built by ordinary wise people, like you. You don't need any special credentials to participate -- we shun credentialism along with other propaganda techniques. It's the fact that it is open to everyone that makes these articles ever-improving, as we review and build on each other's work.

So, you can just dive right in and work on any article you like! You can edit any article directly, or if you want to add your thoughts, questions or comments about an article, you can go to the article's talk page (click on the 'Discussion' link at the top of the page). You need to 'log in' in order to edit. This is quick and easy: email editor AT Powerbase.info to register.

To work together effectively in building the encyclopedia, the Powerbase community has some established policies. An "encyclopedia of propaganda," by its very nature, is bound to attract controversy and debate. It is important, therefore, to write articles that focus on documented facts.

Please include thorough references to documentation supporting the facts in your article, and avoid rhetorical or inflammatory language.

If you are using a rhetorical or inflammatory term, then define it and explain it in an article where it can be put in context and balance introduced. We want Powerbase to be a useful information resource for journalists, activists and the general public, so please do not treat it as a debate forum. Any discussion about topics should be mainly directed at improving articles to the point where they are useful to journalists, the main consumer of our work.

New contributors are always welcome to Powerbase, and you are encouraged to be bold in editing pages. Please try to be accurate in your additions. This is far more important than a polished writing style, as it is easy for others to correct grammar and typing mistakes, but checking facts is laborious. While some newly added and updated articles are monitored by other contributors at the Recent changes page, it is not possible to check them all.

We would suggest you employ news style writing, which is, simply: put the important material first, and then the rest in descending order of importance. If you are taking a position on an issue, take it early and overtly so others can see your declared bias. In time we expect multiple points of view to fully develop and compete in a lively non-violent fashion.

We hope you have fun!

What is "wiki"?

A wiki is a collection of interlinked web pages, any of which can be visited and edited by anyone at any time. The concept and software was invented by Ward Cunningham. Powerbase is based upon this concept and anyone, including you, can contribute and edit by simply sending an email to editor AT Powerbase.info to register as a User. Then it's as simple as just clicking "Edit this page" (to the left or below) on the page you want to contribute to! However, if you want to practice first or just want to see the Wiki in action, edit the Powerbase:Sandbox page instead. See also How to edit a page.

Trust, vandalism and bias on Powerbase

What if someone tries to vandalize or insert disinformation into the Powerbase itself?

The Center for Media and Democracy, which sponsors Powerbase, has other channels through which we can expose and embarrass people who attempt to manipulate its content, such as the Spin of the Day and Weekly Spin features of the PR Watch web site. The Powerbase software includes a number of features that make it possible to detect and manage vandalism. In keeping with our philosophy of creating a community-based "information commons," these features enable the entire community of Internet users to collaborate in overseeing its content, in effect serving as a sort of online "neighbourhood watch committee":

  1. Visitors to the site need to create individual user IDs. This makes it easy to track the editing activities of each logged-in user.
  2. Logged-in Users can create their own individual "watch lists" that let them keep an eye on articles that they feel deserve particular monitoring. They can also call up a list of all recent changes to the entire site.
  3. The software keeps an archive of past versions of each article, making it easy to undo malicious or misguided changes by reverting to a previous version.
  4. If a User sees activity on the site that they believe is vandalism, they can email management AT Powerbase.info and sysop AT Powerbase.info with as much detail as possible.

Since anyone can contribute information, why should anyone trust the Powerbase as authoritative?

As the authors of a book titled Trust Us, We’re Experts, Sheldon Rampton and John Stauber have given quite a bit of thought to the question of what makes information credible. Powerbase intentionally avoids invoking "trusted authority figures." Instead, its credibility will depend on the degree to which articles are well-written and backed with supporting documentation and the degree to which those to whom credibility is important feel they can trust it.

How will Powerbase address questions of bias, particularly with regard to controversial topics?

Rather than using the terminology of "objectivity" or a "neutral point of view," we prefer the concepts of "fairness and accuracy." It is "fair and accurate," for example, to say that most climate scientists believe human activities are contributing to global warming, so there is no need to take a "neutral point of view" with regard to this question. Of course, bias is an issue in any information system, but Powerbase’s users will constitute a community of peers whose combined influence helps compensate for the bias of single individuals. Systemic bias, e.g. due to contributor psychographics or demographics, will be overcome by a variety of measures to promote equity of viewpoints.

As an “encyclopedia of propaganda,” Powerbase is bound to deal with controversial topics. However, the wiki system upon which it is based has shown considerable ability to produce articles that examine controversial topics in a fair and accurate way. Indeed, some of the most controversial topics yield the best articles.

How can I contribute?

By editing pages, creating new pages, publicizing Powerbase, and many other ways.

Registration

Do I have to register to edit pages?

Yes. Registration and the use of your real name introduces a small measure of accountability for material posted on Powerbase.

What's the point of registering?

Email management AT Powerbase.info to register for your own user ID. This enables you to edit and contribute material and gives the following additional benefits:

  • It allows you to set and save Powerbase preferences.
  • It credits you in the article history, as well as on the Recent Changes page, with changes you make.
  • You get a personal Powerbase User page. You can use this to tell people about yourself and list the articles you've worked on.
  • It is much easier for your fellow Powerbase to interact with you if you have a name.
  • Once you have a User name and password, you are invited to add yourself to the email list for editors. Email management AT Powerbase.info

Do I have to use my real name?

Yes, real names are required.

Types of pages and articles on Powerbase

What's the difference between a page and an article?

The term "page" encompasses all the material on Powerbase, including encyclopedia topics, talk pages, documentation, and special pages such as Recent Changes. "Article" is a narrower term refering to a page containing an encyclopedia entry. Thus, all articles are pages, but not all pages are articles.

What is an orphan?

An orphan is an article that no other article links to. These can still be found by searching the Powerbase, but it is preferable to find another article where a link can be added. You can find a list of orphan articles here.

What is a stub?

A stub on Powerbase is a very short article, generally of one paragraph or less. Most people hate stubs, even though they are a probably a necessary evil. Many excellent articles started out as short stubs. Existing stubs should be expanded into proper articles: see Powerbase:Find or fix a stub, and a generated list at Shortpages.

Editing features

How do I edit a page?

It's quite simple. Once you have registered, familiarise yourself with Powerbase Editorial Policy, then it's simply a case of clicking on the "Edit this page" at the top of the page you want to contribute to and type away. See How to edit a page to learn about making links, using bold and italics, linking to images, and many other things...

How to edit a page gives you step by step guidelines for creating a page/article.

If you prefer a quick, rather than detailed guide, then see Powerbase Quick Guide to Editing

Are there any standard formats, for things like dates for example?

For this and other style questions, see the Powerbase:Manual of Style.

How do I rename a page?

Registered users can move a page; this moves the page content and edit history to a new title, and creates a redirecting page at the old title. This method is better than just copying the content by hand, as it preserves the article's history. Use the "Move this page" link. If you want to move a page, please click the "What links here" and fix the links to the page in question. See How to rename (move) a page.

What is "Recent Changes", and what do the abbreviations used there mean?

The notations on "Recent Changes" are "N" for new page (new pages often attract a bunch of copyedits); the "M" stands for "Minor edit" or "minor change", which you can set by checking the check box labelled "This is a minor edit" when you edit a page. If you check your "Preferences", you can suppress minor changes in the Recent Changes List. Checking this box is a courtesy to people who suppress seeing minor changes -- check the box if the change is a simple spelling or grammar change.

Can I change the default number of contributions displayed in the "My contributions" list?

Currently not. You can, however, change the setting on the page and bookmark the resulting page.

Copyrights

The goal of Powerbase is to create information that is available to everyone. The realities of modern copyright law demand that we pay attention to legal issues to ensure that our work can be made available and to protect the project from legal liability. Powerbase entries is licensed to the public under the GNU Free Documentation License (GFDL).

See Powerbase copyright policy for more details and guidelines on copyrights.

Libel

Avoid accusations that are libelous. Just because something that is defamatory has been published elsewhere, it does not mean that you are immune from legal action. It just makes it less likely. Always try and use primary materials from authoratitive sources. See Powerbase Libel Policy for more details.

Everyone who contributes to Powerbase is required to read and understand Powerbase Libel Policy
If you have not already done so - Read it now!

Tone

Try to be as factual as possible. Do not use abusive language or language that is in any way racist, sexist or obscene or could be construed as such. Do not use swear words unless in quotations. Keep any rhetoric or personal comment to a minimum and avoid speculation, innuendo or libel. If comment is provided please be fair. Being fair does not mean not being critical or adding some kind of analysis, though. Just try and strike the correct balance. You want the article to basically contain factual information about the person you are writing about, not your views on the person you are writing about. There is a difference between a profile entry and a blog entry or an opinion piece. Avoid generalizations and unsubstantiated sweeping statements.

If you are making accusations against a person or organization try and support it by as much primary material as possible. Just because someone else has said it is true, it does not mean it is true. Make sure your sources are up to date, and relate to present day situation or indicate that they are historical.

More details on Tone can be found on A Guide to the use of Tone. A Guide to Sourcing also provides useful guidelines for the use of sources.

Using images

Images can enrich and liven up articles.

When adding images, please first refer to Powerbase Image Use Policy and Guidelines

I've found vandalism, or I've damaged a page by mistake! How can I restore it?

Click on the "Older versions" link. Find the last good version of the page (it helps to use a browser with multiple tabs). Edit this old version (you'll get a warning that you're editing an old version at the top of the edit box). Save this text -- it will become the new current version. See Powerbase guidelines on vandalism for further information should you find vandalism on a page.

One of the contributors is being unreasonable. Help!

See Etiquette and Dispute Resolution for Powerbase policy and advice.

Miscellaneous

How do I spread the word?

Powerbase is great but I no longer have a life. I feel the urge to spread this affliction to my fellow human beings. How do I spread the word?

See Powerbase:Publicity for some ideas.

What is an administrator? What is a sysop?

Two words for the same thing. An administrator is simply a Powerbase user who can access the few restricted Powerbase software functions: deleting articles and uploaded files, protecting and unprotecting pages, blocking and unblocking IP addresses, and running certain direct database queries.

How can I become an administrator?

If you wish to contribute to Powerbase as an administrator, you will first need to have a user account. Then, after making positive contributions to Powerbase over a period of time and proving to Powerbase community that you are here in good faith, it may be possible for you to become an administrator. Administrator status can be requested by sending a message to sysop AT Powerbase.info

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