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| In ], sometimes debates get heated. Whenever this occurs, it is important that you always ensure that you get the '''last word'''. | In ], sometimes debates get heated. Whenever this occurs, it is important that you always ensure that you get the '''last word'''. | ||
Revision as of 18:49, 7 February 2007
Essay on editing Misplaced Pages | This is an essay. It contains the advice or opinions of one or more Misplaced Pages contributors. This page is not an encyclopedia article, nor is it one of Misplaced Pages's policies or guidelines, as it has not been thoroughly vetted by the community. Some essays represent widespread norms; others only represent minority viewpoints. | Shortcut |
In Misplaced Pages, sometimes debates get heated. Whenever this occurs, it is important that you always ensure that you get the last word.
Reasons for getting the last word
Getting the last word means that you win the debate. It also shows your moral superiority, and willingness to stand your ground. This should convince your opponent that you are correct, and will certainly impress your fellow Wikipedians.
It is particularly important to get the last word where you are in some doubts as to the merits of your case. The last word will serve as a clinching argument that will make up for any deficiencies in your logic.
How to get the last word
Often, your opponent will not understand the importance of the last word and will readily concede the ground to you. However, sometimes your opponent is well aware of this Wikipedian convention and will attempt to wrongfully deprive you of your right. Do not give ground to such intimidation. Pursue your case with fortitude and vigour. If your actual arguments have already been stated on the page, do not fear to repeat them in a slightly different form. CAPITALISING YOUR ARGUMENT, or bolding sections, can be used to give variety if you fear you are being repetitive.
This debating strategy can be combined with others; for instance is it is great idea to use warning templates and to cite any convenient ] whenever necessary, and better at the end of the argument THAN NEVER. After all, one template says more than a thousand words, and it's a great way to get the last word in case the other bastard user just won't concede the ground.
If your opponent attempts to seize the last word for themselves, be careful to point out the folly of this strategy, perhaps citing this project page. This clever technique allows you to simultaneously regain the last word for yourself while making any sort of reply from your opponent seem in bad faith.
Other complementary strategies
The following may enhance this tactic:
- Remind the little shit that he should abide by Misplaced Pages:Assume good faith and Misplaced Pages:No personal attacks. I mean, if he isn't, why should you?
- Liberally employ vandalism accusations. It is at least theoretically possible that his edits are vandalism, so there is no reason not to raise this concern.
| “ | Remember: any attempt by him/her to deprive you of the last word is quite obviously incivil, possibly JUST TROLLING and certainly a UNILATERAL VIOLATION of WP:POINT. RESIST it at ALL costs. | ” |