Training modules/dashboard/slides/10822-preparing-to-edit-quiz

Preparing to edit quiz

Test yourself!

What should you do before making a substantial change to an article? For example, adding a new paragraph.

1. Read the Talk page of the article to see if there are conflicts, and share your sources and plan for changes there. (click to expand or collapse)

   CORRECT! It's polite to let other editors know what you're intending to do, and what source you'll use. Don't worry if nobody responds. Just sharing your intentions is a good idea.
2. Copy and paste an entire article to your sandbox, make changes there, then copy and paste the article back to where you found it. (click to expand or collapse)

   INCORRECT! This will delete the entire editing history of the article, and all of your changes will probably be reversed by another editor. Even if you plan to rewrite the entire article, it's best to make small changes to the article instead.
3. Nothing. Just make the edit; if someone doesn't like it, they'll revise it. (click to expand or collapse)

   INCORRECT! While this is true up to a point, it's helpful to reach out to other Wikipedians concerning any changes you want to make to an article.
4. Find an experienced Wikipedian who is allowed to make the change for you. (click to expand or collapse)

   INCORRECT! Wikipedia is the encyclopedia anyone can edit, including you. You can make the edit yourself. Of course, it's helpful to discuss planned changes with other editors first.

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