5 Uses for the Wiki Software Behind Wikipedia

Many people know about the free on-line encyclopedia, Wikipedia.org, but few people realize that the concept behind the encyclopedia, the Wiki, can be used for all sorts of uses. One of the best free, personal programs can be found at TiddlyWiki.com. Here are 5 great uses for the Wiki.

1. Use a Wiki to organize a novel in progress.

A Wiki, as a non-linear notebook, lends itself well to organizing a novel, or any writing for that matter. By using the main page as a table of contents, you can then work to add one chapter at a time. You can also add an introduction to characters and then provide in depth character sketches. In fact, due to its non-linear, flexible nature, you can organize your novel or writing in any way you wish. You won't find software that is easier to use or takes up less space.

2. Use Wiki as an easy way to add content to your website.

If you are planning on adding a lot of in depth writing to your website, you can use a Wiki to easily organize your writing in order to keep your website content organized and concise. By using a Wiki instead of a blog, you can hide more detailed information under cuts that lead to Tiddlers (chunks of information hidden under links). Unlike a blog, which is linear in nature, a Wiki allows you to add much more detailed information without making those interested in your information read absolutely everything unless they wish to do so.

3. Wiki can be used to organize a variety of projects.

Working on a project that you'd like to promote on-line? Simply use the free Wiki software to describe your project and provide the details to the world. Once you create the Wiki for your project, all you need to do is upload it to your website and provide a link on your other website pages.

4. You can use Wiki to organize study notes and keep them in one neat file on-line.

Wiki is perfect for organizing class notes! If you take the time to organize your class notes into a Wiki file, by the time of the first exam, all you will have to do is simply review. That's it. No more cramming for hours on end. It just might help your grades.

5. It can also be used to create educational materials.

In addition to using a Wiki to organize your class notes, you can also use it to create educational materials. Are you someone who has spent years working on a hobby that is gaining in popularity? Why not share your expertise with everyone? Create a Wiki and put it on your website. If you are a teacher in a more professional sense, create Wiki files of all of your class material. Once they are completed, upload them to the class website. The information will then be at the fingertips of all of your students in an easy to understand, organized manner. If they have Wiki files for each section of the course, there will be no excuse not to study.

Of course, these are but a few uses for the Wiki software. If you have issues working with it, TiddlyWiki.com has a tutorial. It is also incredibly easy to download a blank version of the software.