What The Duck Free: A Guide to Translation on Wikipedia

The phrase 'If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck' is a classic example of the duck test, a form of abductive reasoning that has been used for centuries. But what does this have to do with translation on Wikipedia? The answer lies in the way we approach translation on the platform.

When translating an article from one language to another, it's essential to ensure that the resulting text is accurate and reliable. This can be a challenging task, especially when dealing with complex or technical topics. However, by following some simple guidelines, you can help ensure that your translations are of high quality and meet Wikipedia's standards.

First and foremost, it's crucial to provide copyright attribution in the edit summary accompanying your translation. This involves providing an interlanguage link to the source of your translation, as well as verifying the text with references provided in the foreign-language article. Failure to do so can result in your translation being removed or edited by other users.

Another important aspect of translation on Wikipedia is the use of machine translation tools, such as DeepL or Google Translate. While these tools can be useful starting points for translations, they are not a substitute for human judgment and revision. It's essential to revise errors as necessary and confirm that the translation is accurate before publishing it on the platform.

In addition to these guidelines, Wikipedia also provides a range of templates and tools to help with translation. For example, you can add a topic to your template by specifying |topic= in the edit summary. This will aid in categorization and make it easier for other users to find related articles.

So why bother with translating on Wikipedia? By contributing to the platform's vast repository of knowledge, you are helping to make high-quality information available to people around the world. Whether you're a native speaker or simply passionate about language, translation is an essential part of building a global community.

In conclusion, translation on Wikipedia requires attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy. By following these guidelines and using machine translation tools wisely, you can help ensure that your translations are of high quality and meet the platform's standards. So why not give it a try? With What The Duck free, you can start translating today and make a real difference in the world.