User:Spinningspark/42

Articles generally require significant coverage

in reliable sources

that are independent of the subject.

Significant coverage

Significant coverage is required to show that the subject is notable. This means references that discuss the subject – directly, in detail. Not just passing mentions, directory listings, or any old thing that happens to have the name in it. And we generally need multiple references - not just one.

Reliable sources

We need sources generally trusted to tell the truth. Major newspapers. Factual, widely-published books, or other high-quality mainstream publications which are careful about fact-checking and accuracy. Not: forums, fansites, MySpace, Facebook, or most blogs. Good sources make the text verifiable.

Independent

Independent sources are needed to establish notability. Nothing written by the subject or paid for by the subject. Not their website. Not a press release. Non-independent sources can be used for verifiability (if they are reliable), but not for notability.

Notes

• For an explanation of the title of this page see The answer to life, the universe, and everything.
• This message is intended for inexperienced editors whose article is most likely governed by the general notability guidelines. Since there are also subject-specific notability guidelines this page should not be cited at AfD.