This is an essay. It contains the advice or opinions of one or more Wikipedia contributors. This page is not an encyclopedia article, nor is it one of Wikipedia's policies or guidelines, as it has not been thoroughly vetted by the community. Some essays represent widespread norms; others only represent minority viewpoints. |
What should Wikipedia be? It should be a learning institute, an example to other encyclopedias, and a friendly, helpful community. There are other things that people think Wikipedia should be, but this essay feels these points are the most important. Under each topic, you will find a context and a notes section. The topics will be listed in order of importance, not in order of alphabet or something similar. If you don't like the way they are put, please ask on the talk page and your questions will be answered.
Context: Wikipedia should be a place where people can learn about anything that interests them. Wikipedians should look for ways to expand Wikipedia's content and keep material that appears to be quality and up to date.
Context: Wikipedia's content should meet the same standards met by other encyclopedias, such as Encyclopædia Britannica. Articles should be kept up to date and include accurate and thoroughly-referenced information. Articles that do not currently meet Wikipedia's standards should be improved—or deleted if absolutely necessary.
Context:Wikipedia should be a place where newcomers are welcomed. New editors should not be looked down upon for their lack of experience, but rather greeted warmly and introduced to editing. Wikipedia should be a place where editors work together for the greater good rather than argue amongst themselves. Wikipedia has come as far as it has through teamwork, rather than independent action that ignores the concerns of other editors.