Creating a Wikipedia Page for Authors and Writers

Introduction

• Purpose: Enhance visibility, credibility, and online presence for authors through Wikipedia.
• Challenge: Wikipedia has strict guidelines, especially for writers.

Step 1: Assessing Author's Notability

• Notability Criteria: Essential before starting a Wikipedia page.
• Writer-Specific Criteria:
  • Detailed entry in respected reference works (e.g., Britannica).
  • Presence in academic papers, theses, or dissertations.
  • Substantial reviews in national media (e.g., NY Times, The Guardian).
• General Notability Criteria:
  • Multiple national media appearances, spread over two years.
  • Features focused on the author's life/work.
  • Investigative nature of media features.

Step 2: Creating a Wikipedia Account

• Importance: Allows page creation and builds a reputation as a contributor.
• Process:
  • Go to Wikipedia, select "Create Account."
  • Provide email, username, and password.
• Tip: Choose a professional username.

Step 3: Starting a Draft

• Use Draft Space: Experiment, refine, and avoid immediate public scrutiny.
• Accessing Draft:
  • Login, visit user draft page.
  • Begin writing using the "start the user draft page" option.

Step 4: Writing the Article

• Tone and Style: Must be encyclopedic, neutral, and not promotional.
• Reference Quality Articles: Look for good or featured articles.
• Suggested Structure:
  • Introduction: Summarize work, achievements, background.
  • Main Sections: Biography, works, genre impact.
  • Notes and References: Source every fact.
  • External Links: Author's website, credible sources.
  • Categories/Portals: Relevant topics inclusion.

Step 5: Submitting for Review or Publishing

• Review vs. Direct Publish: New users benefit from submitting for review.
• Review Process: Volunteers check, suggest improvements.
• Direct Publishing: Quick but risky due to scrutiny.

Step 6: Declaring Connection

• Transparency: Declare any personal or professional connection to the author.
• Declaration Methods:
  • Edit summary.
  • Article discussion page.
  • User profile.
• Consequences of Non-Disclosure: Warnings or accounts could be blocked.

Step 7: Monitoring the Page

• Stay Updated: Monitor for changes, edits, and potential deletion discussions.
• Notifications: Use start icon or email alerts.

Conclusion

• Goal: Add accurate, well-sourced information to the public domain.
• Services: W Consult offers assistance for creation, audits, and training.

Additional Resources

• Leave questions in comments.
• Check out Wiki Consult services for more help.