# <a name="GoodStyle_Collaboration_Tips"> GoodStyle Collaboration Tips </a> * TWiki has a very simple **[[TWikiShorthand]]**. In any case, you won't go wrong if you simply: * start each line without spaces * separate paragraphs with a blank line * Run together capitalized words to form **[[WikiWords]]:** * [[WikiWords]] automatically appear as hyperlinks * make up meaningful, reasonably brief Wiki names - it can be a challenge (it'll sharpen you up!) * [[WikiWords]] has name-creation tips that may help * If a **discussion** is going on: * separate each follow-up with a space * add your [[WikiName]] and the date at the end * OR, by all means, insert your comment where it seems to fit best: * you may want to inset it with a bullet and/or _set it in italics_ so it's clear (always sign and date) * if a sub-topic develops, separate it with a horizontal rule at beginning and end * A good format for a **new topic** is "dissertation followed by discussion": * start with a brief, factual introduction, followed by double horizontal rules * let the discussion begin * When a discussion dies down and the page becomes static, if you're clear on your course, feel free to **refactor mercilessly**: * fearlessly edit down to capture the key points * reduce the noise without losing the facts or the flavor * if you merge or delete comments, group credit `Contributors:` at the end of the page * _This is how Wiki content matures and grows in value over time._ * For **external site links**, you can type URLs directly into the text - `http://etcete.ra/...` - it'll clear to anyone where they're headed on click. * TWiki is intended for world-wide use, and an international **standard date format** like 01 Sep 2001 is preferred. It's universally understood, and clearer than the xx/xx/xx format, where a date like 9/1/01 can mean either Jan or Sep, depending on the local conventions of the readers. For months, use the first three letters: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr,... * **TIP:** Check the source when you want to find out how something is formatted: click <code>**Edit**</code> on the lower toolbar. To see earlier versions, click <code>**More**</code>, then check <code>**Raw text format**</code> and click <code>**View revision**</code>. A bit of HTML experience can't hurt, but you'll soon see with [[TWikiShorthand]] how far that is from necessary. -- [[Main/MikeMannix]] - 01 Dec 2001