Search first. Wikipedia is huge, and you can probably find the answer to your question much quicker by looking for it yourself. Use the search box on the left for searching in Wikipedia. If there is no relevant information on Wikipedia, the Internet is a great resource too, so also try a search engine such as Google.
Do your own homework. The reference desk will not give you answers for your homework, although we will try to help you out if there is a specific part of your homework you do not understand. Make an effort to show that you have tried solving it first.
Do not request regulated professional advice. If you want to ask advice that "offline" would only be given by a member of a licensed and regulated profession (medical, legal, veterinary, etc.), do not ask it here. Any such questions may be removed. See Wikipedia:Medical disclaimer and/or Wikipedia:Legal disclaimer. Ask a doctor, dentist, veterinarian or lawyer instead.
Do not start debates or post diatribes. The reference desk is not a soapbox.
How to ask a question
Include a title and a question. It is easier for our volunteers if question formatting is consistent.
Be specific. Clearly state your question and include any information that might help to understand the context (for example, a wikilink or a link to an online resource). If your question deals with local or national issues, make sure you specify what area of the world it applies to.
Do not provide contact information, such as your e-mail address, home address, or telephone number. Be aware that the content on Wikipedia is extensively copied to many websites; making your e-mail address public here may make it very public throughout the Internet.
Sign your question. Type ~~~~ (four tildes) at the end of your question, to let the reference desk know who is asking.
Do not crosspost. Post your question at one section of the reference desk only.
Be patient. Your question probably will not be answered right away, so come back later and check for a response. Questions are normally answered at the same page on which they were asked. A complete answer to your question may be developed over a period of up to four days.
