h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I have been a Wikipedian (a worker on Wikipedia and related sites) for almost two years now, and I feel I have a very good understanding of how that type of site works. I recently (as in today) stumbled across references to this site, which I had never heard of, though I had at least read h2g2 myself, in the 5-in-1 edition. I have read basic descriptions of this site on Wikipedia and I have looked through some of the help files here (meaning I have a general basic understanding, I think), but what are some of the most important things I need to know, given my background?

It's important to remember that this ain't your father's wikipedia

We try to stay different from wikipedia. We see no problem with jokes and creative structures in our entries. We have no problem with people discussing things for recreation. Entries don't have to be as comprehensive, but writing with elan is encouraged.

If you have any questions, there are plenty of people happy to answer.

I will do my best to keep the two separate in my mind.

Interestingly enough, even though it is not really the same thing, there are humorous articles and things on Wikipedia (even humorous policies), and personal essays are not unknown (though they are generally kept under the user namespace). There are plenty of discussions on Wikipedia, including some that get very far off-topic, but the vast majority are directly related to the articles (which is why there is a talk page option associated with each article). I suppose that is why the guide to Wikipedia for h2g2 Researchers mentions that it is more dry over there.

I look forward to enjoying my time here, and as I've never been afraid to ask questions, I'm sure I'll find plenty of answers, as you said.

Thanks for the short explanation! That's exactly what I was looking for.

Hiya Cromwell.

My name is Terri, aka Terri, but simply zdt when i am lazy or tired and I am an ACE (Assistant Community Editor) here at h2g2. It's my job to welcome you to the site and hopefully show you around a little. I AM a real person, not an automated reply not an automated reply not an automated reply .

Welcome to h2g2 – not just the friendliest on-line community but an incredibly huge, living, breathing guide to Life, the Universe and Everything. It’s compiled by researchers just like you and it's something YOU can take part in. You can write entries on all manner of subjects, and if it's something you think would look good in our Edited Guide (where all the best research goes), you can submit it to Peer Review. Take a look at the writing-guidelines for more information on that.

You have made a great start by opening your space I am sure that you'll find lots to keep you occupied.

We ACEs are volunteers here to assist new researchers so if you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.
You can leave a message on my space just by clicking on my name at the top of this message or by hitting the reply button below - it won't hit back (usually).

My friend Feisor made a "Hints and Links for New Researchers" page at A719840 - if you go there it will lead you to all sorts of places which will help find your way around and get to know this wonderful place

It should keep you busy for a while I am sure that you will love this community as much as we do There's lots of things to see, clubs to join and people to meet - please don't be shy - just jump right in - this is a friendly place. But be careful - it can become quite addictive - believe me I know



Enjoy!!
Have fun!!!
and above all !!!



What did you get up to at Wiki? How did you find out about hootoo (as we often refer to it here) there's been quite a lot of debate about the differences, it would make a great Guide Entry.

My advice would be to go for a jolly good lurk around, do come & say hi after, or during. The "chatty" bit on my own Personal Space is on the latest "EYE" thread, just say i sent you.

Anyway, welcome to hootoo!

zdt

Yeah, we don't limit ourselves to conversing about non-fiction topics, as a quick peek in <./>AskH2G2</.> may show.

I personally don't have the attention span for wikipedia. That's why h2g2 helps me... when authors try to make an entry less dry, while remaining factual, it really makes all the difference.
I guess you've figured out that the way entries are edited is quite different. It's not instant, like in wikipedia. An entry might take 3 months to go from unedited to edited status (though you can instantly create an entry and instantly edit it, it will not get into the Edited Guide for some time). We've also got some community activities. <./>ThePost</.> is our newspaper. The <./>UnderGuide</.> is our fiction/creative writing depot. And our favorite thing to do is worship fake gods, elect fake Presidents and Vice Presidents and generally try to enjoy one another's company.

Hello Jodan, have you sorted that out yet? I reckon it's not Wûrms; could be footrot....herbal remedies maybe called for.

" And did those feet, in ancient thyme"

zdt

Hey Terri Just needs a bath, I think. A good scrubbing down and then he'll be a again.

Who would be the one to give him the bath, I haven't a clue.

Wouldn't recommend this lady, she seems to have attitude problems with fluffy animals.

http://www.interarteonline.com/Samoamax/Altas/rabitt%20kiler%20in%20bath%5B1%5D.jpg


zdt

You're a fake Vice President, Jodan? You could have told me that before I started working for you!

Anyway, welcome to h2g2 - I'm sure you'll like it here!

*waves her *

Welcome!!

*s to put the kettle on for and *




lil xx

Ooh, Lil, can I trouble you for a piece of ?

I've brought biscuits!

We really must get a biscuit smiley in here </>

Of course love.. help yourself

Milk and sugar with your

No tea, thanks.

We could try and pretend they're biscuits. I fancy chocolate bourbons though.

Isn't that a bit politically incorrect? Mind you, there are some very very nice dark French guys round here.....

zdt

But it's , I just can't refuse chocolate, I love it...

Yes you can. You don't *really* love it, you are simply infatuated. Think logically; is that gonna provide for you in your old age, pay the bills, provide you with ham(p)sters of your very own to love & cherish, give you multiple orgasms?

This is the equivalent of a one night stand.

Go for is my advice.

*Er, poor newbie, this is known as "topic drift" round here, feel free to join in. No thread remains unscathed.

zdt

And are going to provide for me etc?

I've heard that chocolate (and other pleasant things) release endorphins, which is the same thing that happens during sex (even multiple orgasms), so at least one of those things is provided for!

While topic drift is generally avoided on Wiki, this reminds me very much of some other things I've enjoyed online and in RL, like passing notes in class! I recently graduated from college, so that is a fairly fresh memory for me.

So you like topic drift then? I love it!

Well, I'm in France, so it could logically be described as Continental Drift, which is very educational stuff. Plus i am a teacher, so can go at all you young dudes so there.

Mott the Hoople, now there was a great band, but a bit of a one hit wonder. Where did the name come from? Do hooples exist? Any link with hoopy froods & what's Mott up to these days?

zdt