Is WikiHow a Clickbait Site? Exploring the Facts
When it comes to the question of whether WikiHow is a clickbait site, opinions can vary widely. Generally speaking, WikiHow is not a clickbait site in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a comprehensive wiki where contributing and editing are encouraged. However, there are some practices on the site that may give it a clickbait vibe to some users.
What is Clickbait?
First, let's define clickbait. Clickbait refers to content that uses sensational or emotionally charged headlines to lure users into clicking on a link to an article, with the expectation that it will contain something more exciting or surprising than it actually does. While technically, WikiHow might not be clickbait in this traditional sense, it does employ some practices that might be seen as clickbait by some users.
WikiHow: A Wiki with an Edge
WikiHow is a platform for how-to articles, tutorials, and guides. The site encourages contributors to edit and create content. However, the editorial approach of some pages can occasionally resemble clickbait. For example, basic articles like 'How to Wash a Car' may have titles like 'Four Ways to Wash a Car with Pictures,' which might appear more sensational than the content they ultimately lead to. Despite this, the actual articles are relevant and comprehensive, serving as detailed guides on the topic.
Content Practices and Clickbait
WikiHow often uses flashed titles and subheadings to attract traffic. This practice can be seen as clickbait when it comes to page titles and headings. While the site's intent might be to highlight the most effective methods or include engaging elements like images and step-by-step guides, the approach can sometimes resemble clickbait, especially for users who may initially expect more sensational content.
Volunteer-Generated Content and Image Issues
The content on WikiHow is largely volunteer-generated, which means it can vary widely in both quality and coverage. Volunteers who contribute may not always have the necessary expertise or resources to create high-quality content. For example, posts about tax forms or complicated financial advice are less likely to be available, while more relatable and less technical topics like 'How to Get a Girlfriend' are more common.
Additionally, images are often needed to make the content more engaging and helpful. WikiHow hires contract workers to add images when volunteers are unable or unwilling to do so. Sometimes, this process can lead to the inclusion of unnecessary or inappropriate images. For instance, steps like 'Consider what you need' or 'Allow the glue to dry thoroughly' might end up with images that aren’t particularly useful or aligned with the instructions.
User Experiences and Perceptions
Many users have reported specific instances where WikiHow felt more like clickbait than a reliable source of information. For example, the use of sensational headlines might lead a user to click on what they think is a clickbait article, only to find a substantial and useful guide. This can create a perception of clickbait, even if the site’s intention is to provide helpful content.
Conclusion
While WikiHow is not a clickbait site in the strictest sense, it does employ practices that can be perceived as clickbait by some users. The site’s reliance on volunteer-generated content and the use of flashy titles and headings contribute to this perception. However, the content itself remains valuable and comprehensive, catering to a wide range of users looking for reliable how-to guides. Users should be aware of these practices to better navigate and understand the content of WikiHow.