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<big>'''This page is a suggested method of styling your wiki - you may wish to edit it to suit your wiki's tastes. Remove this notice when finished.'''</big>
This '''Manual of Style''' outlines a standard of clean, consistent formatting for articles on this wiki. The formatting described here is a ''guideline'' and can be overridden where circumstances warrant it. These guidelines will never be unerringly perfect for every situation. However, please try your best to keep to the advice outlined in this article so others may use your edits as an example when creating and editing their own articles.
 
----
 
This '''Manual of Style''' outlines a standard of clean, consistent formatting for articles on this wiki. The formatting described here is a guideline and can be overridden where circumstances warrant it. These guidelines will never be unerringly perfect for every situation. However, please try your best to keep to the advice outlined in this article so others may use your edits as an example when creating and editing their own articles.


These guidelines are a summary of the most important guidelines for this wiki, but a more expansive set of style  guidelines can be found on Wikipedia at [[wikipedia:Wikipedia:Manual of Style|Wikipedia Manual of Style]].
These guidelines are a summary of the most important guidelines for this wiki, but a more expansive set of style  guidelines can be found on Wikipedia at [[wikipedia:Wikipedia:Manual of Style|Wikipedia Manual of Style]].


==Article layout==
One of the most important parts of wiki editing is how to structure an article. The structure is a powerful thing: it dictates what information the reader reads and when he or she reads it. It can influence what people contribute, where it goes, and how it might be written. Structure has the power to inform or confuse the same way good or bad writing does. Keep a well structured article, and you're more likely to have a high quality one.
Organize sections in an article in a hierarchical structure like you would an outline. Keep it logical, but feel free to forsake strict logic for readability. Wherever possible, try to have an introduction for each section. Just like the article as a whole, the section should start with an introduction and then have its subsections below it. Try using a shallow structure rather than a deep one. Too many nested sections usually leads to a confusing or unreadable article.
Above all, keep your layout consistent. Don't throw your reader a curve ball too often. The following sections will offer some good advice on keeping your articles clean, consistent, and clear.
===Lead section===
Unless an article is very short, it should start with an introductory lead section, before the first subheading. The lead should ''not'' be explicitly entitled == Introduction == or any equivalent header.  The table of contents, if displayed, appears after the lead section and before the first subheading. 
The lead should be capable of standing alone as a concise overview of the article, establishing context, and explaining why the subject is interesting or notable. It should be between one or two paragraphs long, and should be written in a clear and accessible style so that the reader is encouraged to read the rest of the article.
If possible, make the title the subject of the first sentence of the article. For example, write "King '''Frederick II''' was <nowiki>[[King of Terra]]</nowiki> during and after the <nowiki>[[Second War]]</nowiki>." 
The first time the article mentions the title, put it in bold using three apostrophes — <code><nowiki>'''article title'''</nowiki></code> produces '''article title'''.  Avoid other uses of bold in the first sentence, except for alternative titles of an article; for example:
<blockquote>
The '''blood elves''', or '''sin'dorei''', are a race comprised of former high elves...
</blockquote>
Follow the normal rules for italics in choosing whether to put part or all of the title in italics.  This will mainly apply to the titles of books and games:
<blockquote>
'''''The Demon Soul''''' is a novel in the ''<nowiki>[[War of the Ancients]]</nowiki>'' trilogy.
</blockquote>
Do not put links in the bold reiteration of the title in the article's lead sentence.  For example, <strike>"The '''night <nowiki>[[elves]]</nowiki>''' are an ancient race..."</strike> versus "The '''night elves''' are an ancient race."
===Table of contents===
A table of contents will automatically appear in articles with a minimum of '''four''' headings (unless forced by the below options). By default this will be left-aligned above the first section heading.
* To the force a TOC position (left-aligned): <code><nowiki>__TOC__</nowiki></code>
* To completely remove the TOC from a page: <code><nowiki>__NOTOC__</nowiki></code>
The table of contents can be right-aligned - but '''only''' if it is very long (over 15 entries) and an information box is not occupying the top-right corner of the article (rare exceptions exist).


* Right-aligned TOC that floats next to text: {{t|tocright}}
==Article names==
Article names should contain the latest translation, which is the Nintendo DS translation. If you do not have the Nintendo DS version, then you can use [http://www.gamefaqs.com/portable/ds/file/950181/55424 this game script on GameFAQs] or any other script for the Nintendo DS version as a reference.


===Section headings===
==General Article Guide==
Use the <code>==</code> (two equal signs) style markup for main headings, equivalent to <code><nowiki><h2></nowiki></code>. '''Do not use a single <code>=</code>.''' This is because a single <code>=</code> creates an <code><nowiki><h1></nowiki></code> heading which is already used by the page header and would be bad coding. Also, do not use wikilinks in subject headings. When edited, these sections become confusing in the edit history because of the link code. Consider instead putting the word in the first or second sentence of the section and linking it there.
* Article title must follow the subject's official name, e.g. "[[Scythe]]" instead of "Magus's Weapon". It must also be written in Singular instead of Plural, e.g. "Gun" instead of "Guns" - exceptions are only when the article is a List, e.g. "List of Guns".
**For characters, the character's name should be given with no title, unless to avoid tags, e.g. "[[Queen Zeal]]''.
* Always include basic information about the subject when starting an article. The first sentence should have the subject written in '''bold'''. The first sentence should detail the name, classification, and game (or compilation, or series if it recurs). In succeeding sentences, the place where the thing is found, what the thing looks like (or sounds like if it is audio), and its purpose within its appearance.
**If the subject is referred to by multiple names, these must be mentioned in bold followed by the situation, e.g. "[[Crono]]".  
* When writing the article content, game titles should be written in ''italics'', e.g. ''Chrono Cross''. The {{tl|CT}}, {{tl|CC}}, {{tl|RD}}, and {{tl|CE}} are useful for this. Song titles should use "quotation marks", e.g. "Fight with Magus".
* The definite article (the) and indefinite articles (a/an) should be avoided in article titles except if they are used as the official title.
* Please write in third person: use "the player" instead of "you". Disregard this when writing walkthroughs.
* Please avoid writing abbreviations for game titles, e.g ''CT'' - it should be ''Chrono Trigger'', and gaming systems e.g. PS - it should be ''PlayStation''. Exceptions are for spaces where the full name would not fit.
* Wikilinking is limited to the first occurrence of the word or phrase. Wikilinks should be repeated if an subject of interest is included in an infobox or image caption, as well as the body of the article. Exceptionally long articles should link to other articles twice, if necessary: once upon first occurrence, and once again near the bottom or midsection of the article.


Capitalize the first letter only of the first word and of any proper nouns in a heading and leave all of the other letters in lowercase. Use '''"Founding and history"''', not "Founding and History". Note that this is different from most section title rules you'll encounter elsewhere.
==What should an article have?==
This depends on the page. Some things are meant for some pages. See sample: [[Chrono Wiki:Manual of Style/Sample]]


Avoid special characters in headings, such as an ampersand (&), a plus sign (+), curly braces ({}), or square braces ([]). In place of the ampersand, use the word "and" unless the ampersand is part of a formal name.
===For Games===
Recent discussions point out that the game articles, the highlights of this Wiki, should be divided to:
*the descriptive '''Intro''', describing about the game in general. Some snippets from the content of the article may be written here,
*the '''Gameplay''', divided into subsections on the aspects of the game that makes it unique from the rest of the series. Links to the gameplay element pages, if any, should be linked too.
*the '''Setting''' in which the story takes place. A link to the main/list location/world article should be added too,
*the list of playable '''Characters''' including a short description. A collage of the characters picture would be a good addition,
*the '''Story''', written from the point of view of the player character,
*the '''Music''', describing the composition, composer, soundtrack, including main themes, adding in links to the respective music article,
*'''Development''', describing the different versions of the game, and a credits list of the staff/cast behind the game,
*'''Allusions/Trivia''', describing Internal and External Crossovers between the series as well as other series within popular culture,
*the '''Packaging artwork''' gallery for each and every version out there,
*'''External links'''; these pages should link to pages on important fansites (''Final Fantasy Compendium'' or ''Caves of Narshe'', for example), an official site (if one exists), and the GameFAQs page, as well as any other links that may be relevant.
Also, put the relevant wikilink as needed.


Always keep headings short and simple. Headings are guidelines to your page's structure and should inform the reader rather than confuse. To keep it short, avoid unnecessary words or redundancy in headings, i.e. avoid a, an, and the, pronouns, repeating the article title, and so on. Also, try to avoid giving identical titles to different sections.
===For Characters===
Character articles should be divided into:
*A character template (i.e. {{tl|Infobox CT Character}}, {{tl|CCPlayable Character}}, {{tl|Infobox RD Character}})
*A brief description or '''Intro''', leaving no spoilers for the viewer
*'''Appearance''' - A brief description of the character's attire, and personal features
*'''Story'''- You can insert a spoiler template above, but this is where you can lay out the character's history, present (in-game) and future (ending if shown).
*Other reference from a different game:
**For Example: Crono was a reference in Chrono Cross
*'''Abilities''' - Like Character's techs
*Optional
**Theme Song (if any)
**'''Trivia'''
**'''Gallery'''
**'''See also''' (anything related to the character)
*Finally include a navigator at the bottom: (i.e. - {{tl|Chrono Trigger}}, {{tl|CCPC}}, {{tl|Chrono Cross}}, {{tl|RD Nav}})
*'''References''' (if any)


===Images===
===For Equipment===
[[Image:Example.jpg|thumb|Caption]]
Each equipment, that is weapon, armor or accessory, does get an article. Following should be divided as:
[[Help:Images|Images]] make an article memorable and pretty. They can speak where words fail. At the same time, misplaced or untidy images can detract from an article. When choosing images, keep in mind placement, size, and the appropriateness of the image to the section. Let images flow with the text instead of break it up.
*Template (if any; possibly need to be created)
*Image for the equipment (if template is not available or unable to create one)
*Brief description or '''Intro'''- to include where to find it
**If sold in shops, include a table of the location and price (if different)
*Navigator at the bottom: (i.e. {{tl|CT Weapons}}, {{tl|CC Items}}, {{tl|CC Weapons}} etc.)


Large images such as screenshots should use the "thumb" (example:<code><nowiki>[[Image:CoolImage.png|thumb]]</nowiki></code>) option which displays large images as thumbnails. Images should generally be right aligned to enhance readability by allowing a smooth flow of text down the left margin - the "thumb" option does this by default. If an infobox is not being used in an article, a right aligned picture in the lead section is encouraged.
===For Locations===
A perfect location article for {{CC}} (minus the un-created pages) can be found [[Isle of the Damned|'''here''']].


For more information, see the MetaWiki page on [http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Help:Images_and_other_uploaded_files images and other uploaded files].
''In progress''


==== Galleries ====
===For Techs/Elements===
When an article has many images, or can be improved by having more, and having inline images be detract from the readbility of an articles, the use of a <code><nowiki><gallery></nowiki></code> section is encouraged.
Each technique, whether performed by a Playable Character, NPC, or Enemy receives an individual article. If a Tech of the same name is performed by a Character and an Enemy, join them into the same article with separate infoboxes and images. An example of a well-written Element article is [[HiRes]].
Tech and Element articles should be divided as such:


<gallery>
*'''Template''': for ''Chrono Trigger'' use {{tl|Infobox CT Tech|this}} or {{tl|Infobox CT Tech2}}, and for ''Chrono Cross'' use {{tl|Infobox CC Element|this}} or {{tl|Infobox CC Tech|this}}.
Image:Example.jpg|Caption
*'''Images''' of the character or enemy performing the tech. Both, if required.
Image:Example.jpg|Caption
*An '''Introduction''' which includes the page name in bold, the name of the game in italics, and brief information about the character/enemy that uses the tech, how the tech is acquired, and any special effects the tech causes, such as a [[Status Effect]] or pre-set damage.
</gallery>
*'''Description'''- under a separate, underlined header describe the animations that appear on screen when the tech is used.
*'''Strategy''' (if applicable) - Describe when and how this technique can be useful. See [[Hypnowave]] for more information on this.
*Repeat steps 1-5 if enemies perform techs of the same name.
*Optional
**'''Trivia/Etymology/Name Origin''' - Why is the tech named this?
**'''Gallery''' - Does the tech have a long sequence of memorable images? Can the point be illustrated better with more images? Include them here. [[Medalsome]] is a good example of when adding galleries to Tech articles is appropriate.
**'''External Links''' - Is there a video demonstration of this tech on Youtube? Link to it here.
*Include a '''navigation bar''' at the end of each technique (one might possible need to be created for enemy techs; if so, include the appropriate next-best thing). Navigation templates to use: {{tl|CT Techs}} for ''Chrono Trigger'' and {{tl|CC Techs}} or {{tl|CC Elements}} for ''Chrono Cross''
*'''Categories'''- Add appropriate categories. For example, Chrono Trigger Techs should be sent to the category with that name. Enemy techs also have a separate category. When Character and Enemy techs are combined in one article. Add categories for both enemy techs and game-specific techs.


=== Tables ===
===For Enemies/Bosses===
Tables should use a "class" design when possible, and should include as little 'fancy' formatting as possible. Tables can also be made sortable by adding a "sortable" class.
Each enemy or boss encounter whether optional or not must be included. It should be divided to:
*A template of the enemy
**Should include a minimum of HP/MP ATK/DEF, an image and where they can be found or encountered
*A brief description or '''Intro'''
*A '''strategy''' on how to beat (if necessary)
**A video strategy could also be included
*Optional
**'''Gallery'''
**'''Related Enemies''' (which can direct to other related enemies)


For long tables, it is recommended to create an "alt" class to alternate row colours to enhance readability.
====Multiple Encounters====
For multiples encounters, you can use a special template (see example below) which can combine all the different stats together without making the page unnecessarily huge and thus more organized:
<br/>Example:<br/>
{{Infobox CT Boss
|name            = Lavos
|image          = [[Image:Lavos.jpg|Lavos outside form]]
|caption        = Lavos, the destroyer of worlds.
|location        = Lavos Space <small>([[Apocalypse]])</small><br />[[Ocean Palace]] <small>([[Antiquity]])</small><br />
|part1_name      = Lavos Shell
|part1_image    = [[Image:Lavos.jpg|250px|Lavos outside form]]
|part1_caption  =
|part1_hp        = 10000 <small> (1999 AD) </small> <br /> 30000 <small>(Ocean Palace)</small>
|part1_def      = 127
|part1_mdef      = 50
|part1_exp      = 0
|part1_tp        = 0
|part1_g        = 0
|part1_weak      = None
|part1_absorbs  = None
|part1_immune    = None
|part1_treasure  = None
|part1_charm    = None
|part1_techs    = Rain Destruction <br /> Lavos Needle <br /> Chaos Zone / Confuse <br /> Earthquake
|part1_counters  = None
|part1_ccounters = None
|part1_combos    = None
|part2_name      = Lavos Body
|part2_image    = [[Image:Lavoscore.gif|Lavos' body]]
|part2_caption  = Fighting Lavos (Body)
|part2_hp        = 20000
|part2_def      = 255
|part2_mdef      = 100
|part2_exp      = 0
|part2_tp        = 0
|part2_g        = 0
|part2_weak      = None
|part2_absorbs  = None
|part2_immune    = None
|part2_location  = Lavos Shell
|part2_treasure  = None
|part2_charm    = None
|part2_techs    = Fire Dance<br />Dark Will / Chaos<br />Umbral Embrace / Poison<br />Flames of War<br />Evil Emanation / Raises Attack<br />Dark Flame's Embrace
|part2_counters  = None
|part2_ccounters = None
|part2_combos    = Laser Beams
|part3_name      = Lavos Right Hand
|part3_image    = [[Image:Lavos (Right Hand).png]]
|part3_caption  =
|part3_hp        = 8000
|part3_def      = 127
|part3_mdef      = 50
|part3_exp      = 0
|part3_tp        = 0
|part3_g        = 0
|part3_weak      = None
|part3_absorbs  = None
|part3_immune    = None
|part3_location  = Lavos Shell
|part3_treasure  = None
|part3_charm    = None
|part3_techs    = Lunate Barrage<br />Life Grip / Arm revives body<br />Curse / Voids immunities<br />Immobilize / Stop
|part3_counters  = None
|part3_ccounters = None
|part3_combos    = Laser Beams
|part4_name      = Lavos Left Hand
|part4_image    = [[Image:Lavos (Left Hand).png]]
|part4_caption  =
|part4_hp        = 12000
|part4_def      = 127
|part4_mdef      = 50
|part4_exp      = 0
|part4_tp        = 0
|part4_g        = 0
|part4_weak      = None
|part4_absorbs  = None
|part4_immune    = None
|part4_location  = Lavos Shell
|part4_treasure  = None
|part4_charm    = None
|part4_techs    = Lunate Barrage<br />Life Grip / Arm revives body<br />Curse / Voids immunities<br />Immobilize / Stop
|part4_counters  = None
|part4_ccounters = None
|part4_combos    = Laser Beams
|part5_name      = Lavos Pod
|part5_image    = [[Image:LavosCore1.gif|Lavos Pod]]
|part5_caption  =
|part5_hp        = 2000
|part5_def      = 127
|part5_mdef      = 50
|part5_exp      = 0
|part5_tp        = 0
|part5_g        = 0
|part5_weak      = None
|part5_absorbs  = [[Light]], [[Shadow]], [[Ice]] / [[Water]], [[Fire]]
|part5_immune    = None
|part5_japanese  = {{nihongo|Lavos Bit|ラヴォスビット|Ravosu Bitto}}
|part5_oldname  =
|part5_location  = ???
|part5_treasure  = None
|part5_charm    = None
|part5_techs    = Obliterate<br />Negate<br />Curse / Voids immunities<br />Heal<br />Evil Touch / Absorbs MP
|part5_counters  = None
|part5_ccounters = Attack
|part5_combos    = Unholy Light / Slow
|part6_name      = Center Pod
|part6_image    = [[Image:Lavos Core.gif|Center Pod]]
|part6_caption  =
|part6_hp        = 10000
|part6_def      = 127
|part6_mdef      = 50
|part6_exp      = 0
|part6_tp        = 0
|part6_g        = 0
|part6_weak      = None
|part6_absorbs  = None
|part6_immune    = None
|part6_japanese  = {{nihongo|Center Bit|センタービット|Sentā Bitto}}
|part6_location  = ???
|part6_treasure  = None
|part6_charm    = None
|part6_techs    = Suppress<br />Heavenly Tears<br />Diabolic Whisper / Inflicts random status<br />Demon Star / Halves HP<br />Grandstone / Ultimate attack<br />Dreamreaver / Ultimate magic
|part6_counters  = None
|part6_ccounters = None
|part6_combos    = Unholy Light / Slow
|part7_name      = Lavos Core
|part7_image    = [[Image:LavosCore1.gif]]
|part7_caption  =
|part7_hp        = 30000
|part7_def      = 255
|part7_mdef      = 100
|part7_exp      = 0
|part7_tp        = 0
|part7_g        = 0
|part7_weak      = None
|part7_absorbs  = None
|part7_immune    = None
|part7_japanese  = {{nihongo|Lavos Core|ラヴォス コア|Ravosu Koa}}
|part7_location  = ???
|part7_treasure  = None
|part7_charm    = None
|part7_techs    = Temporal Shifts<br />Obliterate<br />Negate<br />Resurrect / Revives Pods
|part7_counters  = None
|part7_ccounters = None
|part7_combos    = Unholy Light / Slow
}}
{{-}}
And for {{CC}}...
{{Infobox CC Enemy
|name      = Dragoon
|image    = [[File:Dragoon.png]]
|caption  =
|part1_name = [[Fort Dragonia]] (Enemy)
|part1_hp        = 350
|part1_innt      = Red
|part1_atk      = 42
|part1_matk      = 15
|part1_def      = 39
|part1_m def    = 10
|part1_dropc    = Ointment
|part1_dropr    = Knee Pad
|part1_stelc    = Silver Pendant
|part1_stelr    = Gold Earring
|part1_absorbs  = Red (occasionally)
|part1_immune    = n/a
|part2_name      = [[Fort Dragonia]] (Boss)
|part2_image    = [[File:Dragoon.png]]
|part2_caption  =
|part2_hp        = 700
|part2_innt      = Red
|part2_paatk      = 49
|part2_matk      = 18
|part2_def      = 40
|part2_m def    = 7
|part2_dropc    = FrogPrince
|part2_dropr    = n/a
|part2_stelc    = Dragoon Gauntlet
|part2_stelr    = n/a
|part2_absorbs  = Red (Occasionally)
|part2_immune    = n/a
|japanese  =
|location  = [[Fort Dragonia]]
}}
{{-}}


==== With row headings, table caption, sortable ====
==Coding and Linking==
 
===Colors===
{|
Different games have different color codes.
{|border="solid" width="50%" cellspacing="0" width="100%"
!scope="col" bgcolor="white"|<font color="#ffffff">''[[Chrono Trigger]]''</font>
!scope="col" bgcolor="#FFFFFF"|<font color="#ffffff">''[[Chrono Cross]]''</font>
!scope="col" bgcolor="#FFFFFF"|<font color="#ffffff">''[[Radical Dreamers]]''</font>
|-
|-
|
!bgcolor="goldenrod"|goldenrod (#DAA520)
{| class="toccolours sortable"
!bgcolor="royalblue"|royalblue (#4169E1)
|+ I am a caption
!bgcolor="black"|<font color=white>black (#000000)</font>
|-
|-
! Heading one || Heading two || Heading three
!bgcolor="maroon"|maroon (#800000)
|-
!bgcolor="lightskyblue"|lightskyblue (#87CEFA)
| class="title" | Row heading 1
!bgcolor="deeppink"|deeppink (#FF1493)
| Row data 2b
| Row data 3c
|-
| class="title" | Row heading 2
| Row data 2b
| Row data 3a
|-
| class="title" | Row heading 3
| Row data 2c
| Row data 3b
|}
|}
|
<center>
<code style="font-size:90%">
{|border="solid" width="50%" cellspacing="0" width="80%"
<nowiki>{|</nowiki> class="toccolours sortable"<br/>
!scope="col" bgcolor="#FFFFFF"|<font color="#ffffff">''[[Chrono Crisis]]''</font>  
<nowiki>|+</nowiki> I am a caption<br/>
!scope="col" bgcolor="#FFFFFF"|<font color="#ffffff">{{CTCE}}</font>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki><br/>
<nowiki>!</nowiki> Heading one || Heading two || Heading three<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki><br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> class="title" | Row heading<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 2<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 3<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki> <br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> class="title" | Row heading<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 2<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 3<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki> <br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> class="title" | Row heading<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 2<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 3<br/>
<nowiki>|}</nowiki>
</code>
|}
 
==== Without row headings, with alt rows ====
 
{|
|-
|-
|
!bgcolor="midnightblue"|<font color=white>midnightblue (#191970)</font>
{| class="toccolours"
!bgcolor="firebrick"|firebrick (#B22222)
|-
|-
! Heading one || Heading two || Heading three
!bgcolor="black"|<font color=white>black (#00000)</font>
|-
!bgcolor="black"|<font color=white>black (#00000)</font>
| Row data 1
| Row data 2
| Row data 3
|- <!-- class="alt" --> style="background-color:#77a;"
| Row data 1
| Row data 2
| Row data 3
|-
| Row data 1
| Row data 2
| Row data 3
|- <!-- class="alt" --> style="background-color:#77a;"
| Row data 1
| Row data 2
| Row data 3
|}
|}
|
</center>
<code style="font-size:90%">
{{-}}
<nowiki>{|</nowiki> class="toccolours"<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki><br/>
<nowiki>!</nowiki> Heading one || Heading two || Heading three<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki><br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 1<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 2<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 3<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki> <br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 1<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 2<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 3<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki> class="alt"<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 1<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 2<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 3<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki> <br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 1<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 2<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 3<br/>
<nowiki>|-</nowiki> class="alt"<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 1<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 2<br/>
<nowiki>|</nowiki> Row data 3<br/>
<nowiki>|}</nowiki>
</code>
|}
 
=== Navigation boxes ===
Navigation boxes can use or be based off {{t|Navigation Box}}. Generally they should be placed at the end of an article, above the categories.
 
''Expand with more details and examples.''
 
 
=== Article message boxes ===
''Add me! You may want to look at [[Wikipedia:Wikipedia:Article message boxes|Wikipedia:Article message boxes]].''
 
===See also, references, external links, and navigational tables===
The last sections, if they exist, should always be "See also", followed by "References", followed by "External links". In the case of "See also", use bulleted to list the internal links. Under the references section should be placed <code><nowiki><references/></nowiki></code> the usage of which can be found at [[WoWWiki:Citation]]. Finally, in the external links should be ''all'' external links.
 
===Disambiguation===
A disambiguation line is sometimes put at the beginning of an article to link to another article with the same or similar title. The line should be italicized and indented once. Most usually contain the phrase, "Were you looking for X?" For example, in the [[Battle of Mount Hyjal]] article:
 
: ''Were you looking for "[[The Battle of Mount Hyjal (History of Warcraft)|The Battle of Mount Hyjal]]", Chapter V of the ''[[History of Warcraft]]''?''
 
The template {{t|for}} can also be used for this purpose.
 
===Quotations===
Format a long quote (over four lines) as an italicized block quotation, which will be indented from both margins. Do not enclose the block quote in quotation marks. To format a block quotation, do not use the wiki indentation mark <code>":"</code> — instead, use the HTML <code><nowiki><blockquote></nowiki></code> element.
 
==Grammar==
Grammar is a writer's toolbox. You can't build good sentences without knowing how to use your tools. Since a wiki article must be as clear as possible for all the people reading it, editors must keep close to correct grammar standards to ensure clear communication.
 
===Capitalization===
Titles such as lord, king, or archdruid start with a capital letter when used as a title (followed by a name): "King Arthas", not "king Arthas". When used generically, they should be in lower case: "Furion is a powerful archdruid." The correct formal name of an office is treated as a proper noun. Hence: "Anduin is the current King of Stormwind."
 
Classes should only be capitalized when used as a proper noun, i.e. as someone's name. ("Warlock, go be evil" versus "That warlock is quite evil.") Races such as orc, human, troll or night elf should not be capitalized except when used as a proper noun or at the beginning of a sentence. Factions such as Forsaken, Alliance, Horde, or Argent Dawn should always be capitalized. Note that although blood elves are racially the same as high elves, they are considered a separate race -- not a faction -- and should not be capitalized.
 
===Titles of works===
Italics are used for the titles of works, such as books and games.  The titles of articles, chapters, and other short works are not italicized but are enclosed in double quotation marks.
 
For example, italicize ''[[The Last Guardian]]'' and ''[[World of Warcraft]]'', and use quotes for "[[Arathor and the Troll Wars]]".
 
== Writing ==
: ''“I believe the road to hell is paved with adverbs”'' -- Stephen King
 
We now come to the meat of an article: the words themselves. When you're editing wikis, you're both academic and artist. You have to be accurate, but you also have to be interesting. Neither one can dominate; you have to skillfully balance both.
 
'''Keep your writing concise.''' Don't use two words where one will do. Keeping your writing simple will make it easy to understand and easy to expand on. Use complete sentences whenever possible. When you write, use grammar as a toolbox: know the rules, but only break them on purpose.
 
'''Check your spelling and grammar.''' Do not use 'u' in place of 'you' or '2' in place of 'to'. Write the way you would for a class paper or a newspaper article.
 
'''Keep all of the topics you cover within the scope of the article.''' What that means is, you don't need to give a detailed history of the [[blood elves]] on the page about [[Kael'thas]]. Consider the article's title as your point of origin and write from that perspective. Make use of the wiki's ability to link to more detailed articles or external sources for more information.
 
'''Write from an impersonal perspective.'''' Do not use "I." For example, do not write, "Hellscream was a fervent member of the Horde. He served both the Old and New Horde, <strike>As far as I know</strike>." Avoid drawing attention to the author (yourself) as much as possible.
 
'''[[WW:BOLD|Be bold]].''' If you know something is wrong, correct it. If you think you could word something better, write it. If an article has a glaring deficiency, fill it. Even if your first attempt isn't golden, you can fix it later or someone else will come along and fix it for you. Don't be afraid to screw up.


== Conclusion ==
==External links==
Every article can be improved (even this one).  Following these guidelines will not ensure a perfect article the first time, but it will give the article a stronger skeleton. It's ultimately your job as an editor to put meat on it.
* [[wikipedia:Wikipedia:Manual of Style|Wikipedia's Manual of Style]]


== External links ==
[[Category:Chrono Wiki|{{PAGENAME}}]]
* [[wikipedia:Wikipedia:Manual of Style|Wikipedia Manual of Style]]
[[Category:Organisation]]

Latest revision as of 16:21, 22 November 2023

This Manual of Style outlines a standard of clean, consistent formatting for articles on this wiki. The formatting described here is a guideline and can be overridden where circumstances warrant it. These guidelines will never be unerringly perfect for every situation. However, please try your best to keep to the advice outlined in this article so others may use your edits as an example when creating and editing their own articles.

These guidelines are a summary of the most important guidelines for this wiki, but a more expansive set of style guidelines can be found on Wikipedia at Wikipedia Manual of Style.


Article names[edit source]

Article names should contain the latest translation, which is the Nintendo DS translation. If you do not have the Nintendo DS version, then you can use this game script on GameFAQs or any other script for the Nintendo DS version as a reference.

General Article Guide[edit source]

  • Article title must follow the subject's official name, e.g. "Scythe" instead of "Magus's Weapon". It must also be written in Singular instead of Plural, e.g. "Gun" instead of "Guns" - exceptions are only when the article is a List, e.g. "List of Guns".
    • For characters, the character's name should be given with no title, unless to avoid tags, e.g. "Queen Zeal.
  • Always include basic information about the subject when starting an article. The first sentence should have the subject written in bold. The first sentence should detail the name, classification, and game (or compilation, or series if it recurs). In succeeding sentences, the place where the thing is found, what the thing looks like (or sounds like if it is audio), and its purpose within its appearance.
    • If the subject is referred to by multiple names, these must be mentioned in bold followed by the situation, e.g. "Crono".
  • When writing the article content, game titles should be written in italics, e.g. Chrono Cross. The {{CT}}, {{CC}}, {{RD}}, and {{CE}} are useful for this. Song titles should use "quotation marks", e.g. "Fight with Magus".
  • The definite article (the) and indefinite articles (a/an) should be avoided in article titles except if they are used as the official title.
  • Please write in third person: use "the player" instead of "you". Disregard this when writing walkthroughs.
  • Please avoid writing abbreviations for game titles, e.g CT - it should be Chrono Trigger, and gaming systems e.g. PS - it should be PlayStation. Exceptions are for spaces where the full name would not fit.
  • Wikilinking is limited to the first occurrence of the word or phrase. Wikilinks should be repeated if an subject of interest is included in an infobox or image caption, as well as the body of the article. Exceptionally long articles should link to other articles twice, if necessary: once upon first occurrence, and once again near the bottom or midsection of the article.

What should an article have?[edit source]

This depends on the page. Some things are meant for some pages. See sample: Chrono Wiki:Manual of Style/Sample

For Games[edit source]

Recent discussions point out that the game articles, the highlights of this Wiki, should be divided to:

  • the descriptive Intro, describing about the game in general. Some snippets from the content of the article may be written here,
  • the Gameplay, divided into subsections on the aspects of the game that makes it unique from the rest of the series. Links to the gameplay element pages, if any, should be linked too.
  • the Setting in which the story takes place. A link to the main/list location/world article should be added too,
  • the list of playable Characters including a short description. A collage of the characters picture would be a good addition,
  • the Story, written from the point of view of the player character,
  • the Music, describing the composition, composer, soundtrack, including main themes, adding in links to the respective music article,
  • Development, describing the different versions of the game, and a credits list of the staff/cast behind the game,
  • Allusions/Trivia, describing Internal and External Crossovers between the series as well as other series within popular culture,
  • the Packaging artwork gallery for each and every version out there,
  • External links; these pages should link to pages on important fansites (Final Fantasy Compendium or Caves of Narshe, for example), an official site (if one exists), and the GameFAQs page, as well as any other links that may be relevant.

Also, put the relevant wikilink as needed.

For Characters[edit source]

Character articles should be divided into:

  • A character template (i.e. {{Infobox CT Character}}, {{CCPlayable Character}}, {{Infobox RD Character}})
  • A brief description or Intro, leaving no spoilers for the viewer
  • Appearance - A brief description of the character's attire, and personal features
  • Story- You can insert a spoiler template above, but this is where you can lay out the character's history, present (in-game) and future (ending if shown).
  • Other reference from a different game:
    • For Example: Crono was a reference in Chrono Cross
  • Abilities - Like Character's techs
  • Optional
    • Theme Song (if any)
    • Trivia
    • Gallery
    • See also (anything related to the character)
  • Finally include a navigator at the bottom: (i.e. - {{Chrono Trigger}}, {{CCPC}}, {{Chrono Cross}}, {{RD Nav}})
  • References (if any)

For Equipment[edit source]

Each equipment, that is weapon, armor or accessory, does get an article. Following should be divided as:

  • Template (if any; possibly need to be created)
  • Image for the equipment (if template is not available or unable to create one)
  • Brief description or Intro- to include where to find it
    • If sold in shops, include a table of the location and price (if different)
  • Navigator at the bottom: (i.e. {{CT Weapons}}, {{CC Items}}, {{CC Weapons}} etc.)

For Locations[edit source]

A perfect location article for Chrono Cross (minus the un-created pages) can be found here.

In progress

For Techs/Elements[edit source]

Each technique, whether performed by a Playable Character, NPC, or Enemy receives an individual article. If a Tech of the same name is performed by a Character and an Enemy, join them into the same article with separate infoboxes and images. An example of a well-written Element article is HiRes. Tech and Element articles should be divided as such:

  • Template: for Chrono Trigger use {{Infobox CT Tech}} or {{Infobox CT Tech2}}, and for Chrono Cross use {{Infobox CC Element}} or {{Infobox CC Tech}}.
  • Images of the character or enemy performing the tech. Both, if required.
  • An Introduction which includes the page name in bold, the name of the game in italics, and brief information about the character/enemy that uses the tech, how the tech is acquired, and any special effects the tech causes, such as a Status Effect or pre-set damage.
  • Description- under a separate, underlined header describe the animations that appear on screen when the tech is used.
  • Strategy (if applicable) - Describe when and how this technique can be useful. See Hypnowave for more information on this.
  • Repeat steps 1-5 if enemies perform techs of the same name.
  • Optional
    • Trivia/Etymology/Name Origin - Why is the tech named this?
    • Gallery - Does the tech have a long sequence of memorable images? Can the point be illustrated better with more images? Include them here. Medalsome is a good example of when adding galleries to Tech articles is appropriate.
    • External Links - Is there a video demonstration of this tech on Youtube? Link to it here.
  • Include a navigation bar at the end of each technique (one might possible need to be created for enemy techs; if so, include the appropriate next-best thing). Navigation templates to use: {{CT Techs}} for Chrono Trigger and {{CC Techs}} or {{CC Elements}} for Chrono Cross
  • Categories- Add appropriate categories. For example, Chrono Trigger Techs should be sent to the category with that name. Enemy techs also have a separate category. When Character and Enemy techs are combined in one article. Add categories for both enemy techs and game-specific techs.

For Enemies/Bosses[edit source]

Each enemy or boss encounter whether optional or not must be included. It should be divided to:

  • A template of the enemy
    • Should include a minimum of HP/MP ATK/DEF, an image and where they can be found or encountered
  • A brief description or Intro
  • A strategy on how to beat (if necessary)
    • A video strategy could also be included
  • Optional
    • Gallery
    • Related Enemies (which can direct to other related enemies)

Multiple Encounters[edit source]

For multiples encounters, you can use a special template (see example below) which can combine all the different stats together without making the page unnecessarily huge and thus more organized:
Example:

Lavos
Lavos outside form
Lavos, the destroyer of worlds.
Location Lavos Space (Apocalypse)
Ocean Palace (Antiquity)

And for Chrono Cross...

Dragoon
Dragoon.png
Location Fort Dragonia

Coding and Linking[edit source]

Colors[edit source]

Different games have different color codes.

Chrono Trigger Chrono Cross Radical Dreamers
goldenrod (#DAA520) royalblue (#4169E1) black (#000000)
maroon (#800000) lightskyblue (#87CEFA) deeppink (#FF1493)
Chrono Crisis Chrono Trigger: Crimson Echoes
midnightblue (#191970) firebrick (#B22222)
black (#00000) black (#00000)

External links[edit source]

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