How to Add Myself to Wikipedia
Adding yourself to Wikipedia can be a significant achievement, as it allows you to have a presence on one of the most widely visited websites in the world. However, the process of adding your own information to Wikipedia can be quite intricate and requires adherence to the platform’s guidelines. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to add yourself to Wikipedia.
1. Research and Understand Wikipedia’s Policies
Before you begin, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Wikipedia’s policies and guidelines. The platform has strict rules regarding what can and cannot be included in an article. For personal pages, Wikipedia has specific policies, such as the Notability guideline, which states that a topic must have been discussed in reliable sources to be considered notable.
2. Gather Reliable Sources
To prove your notability, you’ll need to gather evidence that you have been discussed in reliable sources. This can include news articles, interviews, academic publications, or other credible references. Ensure that these sources are accessible to the public and verifiable.
3. Create a User Account
To edit Wikipedia, you need to create a user account. This is not the same as creating a Wikipedia page for yourself. The account is for editing and contributing to the platform, while a user page is a personal space for you to discuss your editing activities.
4. Start an Article
Once you have a user account and reliable sources, you can start an article. Go to the Wikipedia page where you would like to add your information, click on the “Edit” button, and add a new section with your name as the title. Be sure to cite your sources appropriately.
5. Follow Wikipedia’s Notability Guidelines
When creating your article, ensure that it adheres to Wikipedia’s notability guidelines. If you are not a public figure or a notable individual, your article may be deleted for not meeting these criteria. Be thorough in your research and include only information that is verifiable and has been discussed in reliable sources.
6. Cite Your Sources
Proper citation is essential for Wikipedia articles. Use the “Cite” feature to include references to your sources. This not only helps with notability but also ensures that readers can verify the information you provide.
7. Seek Feedback and Collaborate
After you have added your information, other Wikipedia editors may review your article. Be open to feedback and be willing to collaborate with others to improve the article. Remember that Wikipedia is a community-driven project, and collaboration is key.
8. Monitor Your Article
Once your article is live, keep an eye on it to ensure that it remains accurate and up-to-date. You can also respond to any comments or concerns from other editors.
9. Respect Wikipedia’s Editing Policies
Always follow Wikipedia’s editing policies, including the Neutral Point of View (NPOV) policy, which requires articles to present all sides of a topic without bias. Avoid using your Wikipedia page for self-promotion or personal gain.
10. Be Patient
The process of adding yourself to Wikipedia can take time, as it may require multiple edits and reviews. Be patient and persistent, and remember that Wikipedia is a community-driven platform that values collaboration and adherence to its guidelines.
By following these steps, you can successfully add yourself to Wikipedia while adhering to the platform’s policies and maintaining the integrity of the project.
