Requirements for Creating a Wikipedia Page

Creating a Wikipedia page is a significant undertaking that requires adherence to several stringent requirements and guidelines. These guidelines ensure that the content is reliable, neutral, detailed, and of appropriate quality to be published on one of the world's most trusted online encyclopedias. Here are the essential requirements and guidelines for a Wikipedia page:

1. Notability

The subject of your proposed Wikipedia page must be notable, meaning it has received significant coverage in reliable independent sources such as books, newspapers, and academic journals. Notability is the first and most critical criterion to meet. Without sufficient coverage, your article will likely be nominated for deletion.

2. Reliable Sources

All information must be verifiable and based on reliable sources. While primary sources are less preferred, secondary sources that analyze or interpret primary sources are often the best choice. Sources should be cited within the article to ensure transparency and credibility.

3. Neutral Point of View (NPOV)

wikipedia enforces a strict policy of writing from a neutral perspective. The article should present all significant viewpoints fairly and without any bias. This means avoiding opinions, personal judgment, and any form of advocacy or editorializing.

4. Original Content

The content should be original and not replicated from other sources. Wikipedia does not allow plagiarism. Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to use any copyrighted material and that your writing is completely original.

5. Sufficient Detail

Your article should provide enough detail to give readers a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Covering significant aspects of the subject ensures that the article is informative and useful. Short, skimpy articles are unlikely to be accepted.

6. Formatting and Structure

The page should adhere to Wikipedia's formatting guidelines. This includes using proper section headings, citations, and links to other relevant articles. Consistent and correct formatting enhances the readability and credibility of the article.

7. No Advertising or Promotion

The content should not be promotional or serve as an advertisement for a product, service, or individual. Wikipedia is not a marketplace for products or services, and any promotional content will likely be removed.

8. Conflict of Interest (CoI)

If you have a personal connection to the subject, you should avoid writing about it directly to prevent bias. It's best to delegate the task to someone who can provide a balanced and unbiased perspective. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the encyclopedia.

9. Wikipedia Markup

A familiarity with Wikipedia's markup language can be beneficial for formatting the page correctly. While not strictly required, mastering the basics of {{PM|}}, {{cite book}}, and other templates can help streamline the process of creating and editing your article.

10. Creating an Account

While not strictly required, creating a Wikipedia account can provide additional credibility and make the process of creating and editing pages more seamless. Having an account also allows you to track your contributions and participate in discussions more effectively.

Additional Notes

Before creating a new page, it's often a good idea to check if a similar topic already exists. If you find an existing page, consider contributing to it rather than creating a duplicate. Alternatively, you can discuss the proposed article on the relevant talk page to get feedback and ensure that there is a need for the page.

By following these guidelines, you significantly increase the chances of your Wikipedia page being accepted and remaining live on the platform. Remember, the credibility and reliability of the information you provide are paramount. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create an informative, accurate, and valuable addition to Wikipedia.