Wikipedia:Use a custom signature
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Wikipedians should use a custom signature of their own preference.
How
- Open your preferences, and check the "Treat the above as wiki markup" checkbox - this allows you to fully customise your signature to your own liking.
- Read and go through WP:CUSTOMSIG to get started. Take your time and have fun with it. Be sure not to use excessive markup for accessibility reasons. Don't forget to save your changes.
Pros
- Far easier for users to identify several posts by the same person in a thread due to a contrast of colours - ease of reading posts helps others in responding
- Users with a custom signature in most cases show that the user has a certain level of investment to the site and its policies than someone with a default signature
- A way to relax a bit and have fun while spending time here. Wikipedians have no obligation to contribute - long-term contributors to the site gather some of their own personal reasons for doing so. Being a bit creative with the mark you leave on the site might be a reason for you.
Cons
- On some setups a fancy signature might not display properly
Notes
- Wikipedia is your experience, so make the most of it, however you feel is necessary! Whether it's for practical use or for personal amusement using a custom signature is a great way to leave your unique mark on the site and its many discussions.
See also
- Wikipedia:Changing username, if your username doesn't match your preferred signature name - above all do not confuse editors with your signature
- Wikipedia:Use the default signature, advocates the opposite point of view