Why You Shouldn’t Wiki

By Nik Nadeau, Writing Consultant

Close your eyes. Now, imagine a person against whom you would just love to win an argument. Maybe it is your boss, brother-in-law, or that snotty neighbor across the street. Anyway, whoever it is, picture this person, in high definition, standing right in front of you, a malicious grin spread across his or her face, saying, “Go ahead. Try me.”

This person, as your nemesis, is itching to hear your argument.  Then tear it apart.

Now, imagine that you have chosen a topic--say, the health benefits of exercise. Your nemesis declares him or herself the world’s fattest couch potato, takes pride in being less active than even Garfield, and considers extra-greasy potato chips a primary food group. Wouldn’t you just love to blow this person’s socks off with a winning argument?

Writing an academic paper, believe it or not, is no different. Although your readers will not be your greasy next door neighbor (well, probably not), they will be skeptical of your claims and evidence, as all engaged scholars should be. Each time you write and hone a paper, think of it as your last shot, your one and only opportunity to win over your greatest skeptics.

To accomplish this mission--and let’s be serious, folks--would you really use Wikipedia?

APA, for one, doesn’t think so. Take this excerpt from a 2009 APA blog post by Timothy McAdoo: “Is it a good idea to cite Wikipedia in your research paper? Generally speaking, no.” In other words, use Wikipedia to help broaden your understanding of a topic, but unless you plan on staking your academic reputation on a Wikipedia article, avoid directly citing it in your paper. The same rule applies to About.com and other general information websites with anonymous authors.

Instead--and this is a huge instead--use the Walden Library website. Here you will find journal databases, ebooks, published dissertations, and world-class reference service (just email library@waldenu.edu). Don’t be afraid to contact the library--we do all the time! Even when you feel fine without help, Walden librarians can show you how to turn your Chevy Cavalier of a paper into a shiny, intimidating Cadillac. If you think your paper already has Cadillac status, imagine turning it into an Aston Martin.

Of course, if you need writing-related help or want tips on incorporating research into your paper, the Writing Center is always available at writingsupport@waldenu.edu and by paper review appointment.

So go ahead, Walden University scholar. Try me.