Template:Infobox building
- Template:Infobox building
Template:Infobox building is a standardized formatting template used on Wikipedia and other MediaWiki-based wikis to display key information about buildings in a concise and visually appealing manner. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding, using, and customizing this template, geared towards beginners. We will cover its purpose, the parameters it utilizes, how to implement it on a page, and best practices for ensuring its effective use. This guide assumes you have a basic understanding of editing on Wikipedia.
What is an Infobox?
An infobox is a sidebar-like box appearing typically on the right-hand side of a Wikipedia article. It's designed to quickly summarize essential facts about the article's subject. For buildings, this might include its location, architectural style, construction date, height, and other relevant details. Infoboxes promote consistency across articles, allowing readers to quickly find the same kinds of information regardless of the specific building being researched. They improve readability and overall user experience, providing a "snapshot" of the topic. Without infoboxes, key data would be buried within the main text, making it harder to access. Think of it like a quick reference guide. Similar infoboxes exist for various subjects, such as Template:Infobox person, Template:Infobox song, and Template:Infobox country.
Why use Template:Infobox building?
This specific template, `Infobox building`, is tailored to the unique characteristics of buildings. Using a dedicated template ensures that the information presented is relevant and organized in a way that makes sense for architectural structures. It’s more effective than attempting to create a similar structure using raw wiki markup, as the template handles much of the formatting automatically. Furthermore, consistent use of this template allows for potential data aggregation and analysis across the wiki, enabling features like lists of tallest buildings sorted by height or buildings built in a specific architectural style.
Understanding the Parameters
The `Infobox building` template uses a series of named parameters to define the information displayed. These parameters are entered into the template call within the article's source code. Here's a detailed breakdown of the most common and important parameters:
- name (required): The official name of the building. This is the primary label for the infobox.
- official_name (optional): If the building has a more formal or complete official name, it can be specified here. This will be displayed alongside the `name`.
- image (optional): The filename of an image of the building. This should be a file already uploaded to the wiki. Use the format `Example.jpg`.
- image_size (optional): Controls the width of the image in pixels. Defaults to 250px. Example: `image_size = 300px`.
- caption (optional): A descriptive caption for the image.
- location (required): The city and country where the building is located. Ideally, use a coordinate template (see below) for precise location.
- coordinates (optional): Use a coordinate template like `Template:Coord` to specify the latitude and longitude of the building. This allows the building to be displayed on a map. Example: `Template:Coord`. Using coordinates is *highly* recommended.
- latitude (optional, deprecated): Latitude coordinate (use `coordinates` instead).
- longitude (optional, deprecated): Longitude coordinate (use `coordinates` instead).
- address (optional): The full street address of the building.
- architect (optional): The architect(s) who designed the building. Use linking to relevant architect pages if they exist.
- style (optional): The architectural style of the building (e.g., Gothic, Modern, Art Deco). Link to relevant architectural style pages if available.
- built (optional): The year the building was completed. Use a range for buildings constructed over multiple years (e.g., `1920–1930`).
- height_m (optional): The height of the building in meters. Use a decimal for fractions.
- height_ft (optional): The height of the building in feet. Use a decimal for fractions. *Only specify one height (meters or feet) to avoid confusion.* The template will automatically convert between the two.
- floors (optional): The number of floors in the building.
- materials (optional): The primary building materials used (e.g., steel, concrete, glass).
- use (optional): The primary use of the building (e.g., residential, office, retail).
- website (optional): The official website of the building.
- notes (optional): Additional notes or information about the building.
- map_type (optional): The type of map to display with the coordinates. Options include `default`, `terrain`, `satellite`, and `hybrid`.
- map_size (optional): The size of the map in pixels. Defaults to 200px.
- floor_area_m2 (optional): The floor area in square meters.
- floor_area_ft2 (optional): The floor area in square feet.
- cost (optional): The cost of construction.
- tenant (optional): A major tenant of the building.
These are the most commonly used parameters, but the template may include others. Refer to the template's documentation page (linked below) for a complete list.
How to Implement the Template
To use the `Infobox building` template in an article, follow these steps:
1. **Edit the Article:** Open the Wikipedia article you want to add the infobox to in edit mode. 2. **Insert the Template Code:** At the beginning of the article (usually near the top), insert the following code:
```wiki
- Template:Infobox building
Template:Infobox building is a standardized formatting template used on Wikipedia and other MediaWiki-based wikis to display key information about buildings in a concise and visually appealing manner. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding, using, and customizing this template, geared towards beginners. We will cover its purpose, the parameters it utilizes, how to implement it on a page, and best practices for ensuring its effective use. This guide assumes you have a basic understanding of editing on Wikipedia.
What is an Infobox?
An infobox is a sidebar-like box appearing typically on the right-hand side of a Wikipedia article. It's designed to quickly summarize essential facts about the article's subject. For buildings, this might include its location, architectural style, construction date, height, and other relevant details. Infoboxes promote consistency across articles, allowing readers to quickly find the same kinds of information regardless of the specific building being researched. They improve readability and overall user experience, providing a "snapshot" of the topic. Without infoboxes, key data would be buried within the main text, making it harder to access. Think of it like a quick reference guide. Similar infoboxes exist for various subjects, such as Template:Infobox person, Template:Infobox song, and Template:Infobox country.
Why use Template:Infobox building?
This specific template, `Infobox building`, is tailored to the unique characteristics of buildings. Using a dedicated template ensures that the information presented is relevant and organized in a way that makes sense for architectural structures. It’s more effective than attempting to create a similar structure using raw wiki markup, as the template handles much of the formatting automatically. Furthermore, consistent use of this template allows for potential data aggregation and analysis across the wiki, enabling features like lists of tallest buildings sorted by height or buildings built in a specific architectural style.
Understanding the Parameters
The `Infobox building` template uses a series of named parameters to define the information displayed. These parameters are entered into the template call within the article's source code. Here's a detailed breakdown of the most common and important parameters:
- name (required): The official name of the building. This is the primary label for the infobox.
- official_name (optional): If the building has a more formal or complete official name, it can be specified here. This will be displayed alongside the `name`.
- image (optional): The filename of an image of the building. This should be a file already uploaded to the wiki. Use the format `Example.jpg`.
- image_size (optional): Controls the width of the image in pixels. Defaults to 250px. Example: `image_size = 300px`.
- caption (optional): A descriptive caption for the image.
- location (required): The city and country where the building is located. Ideally, use a coordinate template (see below) for precise location.
- coordinates (optional): Use a coordinate template like `Template:Coord` to specify the latitude and longitude of the building. This allows the building to be displayed on a map. Example: `Template:Coord`. Using coordinates is *highly* recommended.
- latitude (optional, deprecated): Latitude coordinate (use `coordinates` instead).
- longitude (optional, deprecated): Longitude coordinate (use `coordinates` instead).
- address (optional): The full street address of the building.
- architect (optional): The architect(s) who designed the building. Use linking to relevant architect pages if they exist.
- style (optional): The architectural style of the building (e.g., Gothic, Modern, Art Deco). Link to relevant architectural style pages if available.
- built (optional): The year the building was completed. Use a range for buildings constructed over multiple years (e.g., `1920–1930`).
- height_m (optional): The height of the building in meters. Use a decimal for fractions.
- height_ft (optional): The height of the building in feet. Use a decimal for fractions. *Only specify one height (meters or feet) to avoid confusion.* The template will automatically convert between the two.
- floors (optional): The number of floors in the building.
- materials (optional): The primary building materials used (e.g., steel, concrete, glass).
- use (optional): The primary use of the building (e.g., residential, office, retail).
- website (optional): The official website of the building.
- notes (optional): Additional notes or information about the building.
- map_type (optional): The type of map to display with the coordinates. Options include `default`, `terrain`, `satellite`, and `hybrid`.
- map_size (optional): The size of the map in pixels. Defaults to 200px.
- floor_area_m2 (optional): The floor area in square meters.
- floor_area_ft2 (optional): The floor area in square feet.
- cost (optional): The cost of construction.
- tenant (optional): A major tenant of the building.
These are the most commonly used parameters, but the template may include others. Refer to the template's documentation page (linked below) for a complete list.
How to Implement the Template
To use the `Infobox building` template in an article, follow these steps:
1. **Edit the Article:** Open the Wikipedia article you want to add the infobox to in edit mode. 2. **Insert the Template Code:** At the beginning of the article (usually near the top), insert the following code:
```wiki Template loop detected: Template:Infobox building ```
3. **Fill in the Parameters:** Replace the empty values after each parameter name with the corresponding information for the building. Remember that `name` and `location` are required. 4. **Preview and Save:** Click the "Show preview" button to see how the infobox will look. If everything is correct, click the "Publish changes" button to save your edits.
- Example:**
Let's say you're adding an infobox for the Empire State Building. Here's how the template code might look:
```wiki Template loop detected: Template:Infobox building ```
Best Practices and Tips
- **Consistency:** Use the same parameters and formatting for all building infoboxes on the wiki.
- **Accuracy:** Ensure all information is accurate and verifiable. Cite your sources. Consider using reliable sources such as architectural databases, official building websites, and academic publications.
- **Coordinates:** *Always* include coordinates using the `Template:Coord` template. This adds significant value to the infobox.
- **Image Quality:** Use high-resolution, well-composed images.
- **Units:** Specify height in either meters or feet, but not both. The template automatically converts.
- **Linking:** Link relevant terms to other Wikipedia articles (e.g., architect names, architectural styles). This improves navigation and provides readers with more information. For example, linking to Architectural style or History of architecture.
- **Template Documentation:** Refer to the official template documentation page for the most up-to-date information and a complete list of parameters: Template:Infobox building/doc.
- **Avoid Redundancy:** Don't repeat information that is already clearly stated in the main text of the article. The infobox should *summarize* key facts, not duplicate them.
- **Use appropriate parameters:** Don't try to force information into a parameter that doesn't quite fit. If a suitable parameter doesn't exist, consider adding a note instead.
- **Consider using a sandbox:** Before making changes to a live article, test your infobox edits in a sandbox environment to ensure they look as expected.
- **Be mindful of screen readers:** Ensure the infobox is accessible to users with disabilities. Use clear and concise language in the caption and notes.
Advanced Techniques
- **Conditional Parameters:** You can use conditional statements within the template to display certain parameters only if specific conditions are met. This requires a more advanced understanding of MediaWiki templates.
- **Data from Wikidata:** The `Infobox building` template can be linked to data stored on Wikidata, allowing for automatic population of certain fields. This is a more advanced technique that requires familiarity with Wikidata and its query language.
- **Custom Styling:** While generally discouraged, you can sometimes override the default styling of the infobox using CSS. However, this should be done with caution to avoid breaking the template's layout.
Troubleshooting
- **Infobox Not Displaying:** Check for syntax errors in your template code. Make sure all required parameters are present.
- **Incorrect Information:** Double-check the accuracy of the information you've entered.
- **Image Not Showing:** Verify that the image file exists on the wiki and that the filename is correct. Ensure the image is not protected or restricted.
- **Coordinates Not Working:** Make sure you're using the `Template:Coord` template correctly and that the latitude and longitude values are valid.
Related Templates and Concepts
- Template:Infobox skyscraper: A more specialized infobox for skyscrapers.
- Template:Coord: The template used for specifying geographic coordinates.
- Help:Templates: A general guide to using templates on MediaWiki.
- Wikipedia:Manual of Style/Infoboxes: Guidelines for using infoboxes on Wikipedia.
- Wikipedia:WikiProject Architecture: A collaborative project dedicated to improving articles about architecture.
Financial Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Trading involves risk, and you could lose money. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. The links provided at the end of this article are affiliate links, and we may receive a commission if you sign up through them.
Start Trading Now
Sign up at IQ Option (Minimum deposit $10) Open an account at Pocket Option (Minimum deposit $5)
Join Our Community
Subscribe to our Telegram channel @strategybin to receive: ✓ Daily trading signals ✓ Exclusive strategy analysis ✓ Market trend alerts ✓ Educational materials for beginners ```
3. **Fill in the Parameters:** Replace the empty values after each parameter name with the corresponding information for the building. Remember that `name` and `location` are required. 4. **Preview and Save:** Click the "Show preview" button to see how the infobox will look. If everything is correct, click the "Publish changes" button to save your edits.
- Example:**
Let's say you're adding an infobox for the Empire State Building. Here's how the template code might look:
```wiki
- Template:Infobox building
Template:Infobox building is a standardized formatting template used on Wikipedia and other MediaWiki-based wikis to display key information about buildings in a concise and visually appealing manner. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding, using, and customizing this template, geared towards beginners. We will cover its purpose, the parameters it utilizes, how to implement it on a page, and best practices for ensuring its effective use. This guide assumes you have a basic understanding of editing on Wikipedia.
What is an Infobox?
An infobox is a sidebar-like box appearing typically on the right-hand side of a Wikipedia article. It's designed to quickly summarize essential facts about the article's subject. For buildings, this might include its location, architectural style, construction date, height, and other relevant details. Infoboxes promote consistency across articles, allowing readers to quickly find the same kinds of information regardless of the specific building being researched. They improve readability and overall user experience, providing a "snapshot" of the topic. Without infoboxes, key data would be buried within the main text, making it harder to access. Think of it like a quick reference guide. Similar infoboxes exist for various subjects, such as Template:Infobox person, Template:Infobox song, and Template:Infobox country.
Why use Template:Infobox building?
This specific template, `Infobox building`, is tailored to the unique characteristics of buildings. Using a dedicated template ensures that the information presented is relevant and organized in a way that makes sense for architectural structures. It’s more effective than attempting to create a similar structure using raw wiki markup, as the template handles much of the formatting automatically. Furthermore, consistent use of this template allows for potential data aggregation and analysis across the wiki, enabling features like lists of tallest buildings sorted by height or buildings built in a specific architectural style.
Understanding the Parameters
The `Infobox building` template uses a series of named parameters to define the information displayed. These parameters are entered into the template call within the article's source code. Here's a detailed breakdown of the most common and important parameters:
- name (required): The official name of the building. This is the primary label for the infobox.
- official_name (optional): If the building has a more formal or complete official name, it can be specified here. This will be displayed alongside the `name`.
- image (optional): The filename of an image of the building. This should be a file already uploaded to the wiki. Use the format `Example.jpg`.
- image_size (optional): Controls the width of the image in pixels. Defaults to 250px. Example: `image_size = 300px`.
- caption (optional): A descriptive caption for the image.
- location (required): The city and country where the building is located. Ideally, use a coordinate template (see below) for precise location.
- coordinates (optional): Use a coordinate template like `Template:Coord` to specify the latitude and longitude of the building. This allows the building to be displayed on a map. Example: `Template:Coord`. Using coordinates is *highly* recommended.
- latitude (optional, deprecated): Latitude coordinate (use `coordinates` instead).
- longitude (optional, deprecated): Longitude coordinate (use `coordinates` instead).
- address (optional): The full street address of the building.
- architect (optional): The architect(s) who designed the building. Use linking to relevant architect pages if they exist.
- style (optional): The architectural style of the building (e.g., Gothic, Modern, Art Deco). Link to relevant architectural style pages if available.
- built (optional): The year the building was completed. Use a range for buildings constructed over multiple years (e.g., `1920–1930`).
- height_m (optional): The height of the building in meters. Use a decimal for fractions.
- height_ft (optional): The height of the building in feet. Use a decimal for fractions. *Only specify one height (meters or feet) to avoid confusion.* The template will automatically convert between the two.
- floors (optional): The number of floors in the building.
- materials (optional): The primary building materials used (e.g., steel, concrete, glass).
- use (optional): The primary use of the building (e.g., residential, office, retail).
- website (optional): The official website of the building.
- notes (optional): Additional notes or information about the building.
- map_type (optional): The type of map to display with the coordinates. Options include `default`, `terrain`, `satellite`, and `hybrid`.
- map_size (optional): The size of the map in pixels. Defaults to 200px.
- floor_area_m2 (optional): The floor area in square meters.
- floor_area_ft2 (optional): The floor area in square feet.
- cost (optional): The cost of construction.
- tenant (optional): A major tenant of the building.
These are the most commonly used parameters, but the template may include others. Refer to the template's documentation page (linked below) for a complete list.
How to Implement the Template
To use the `Infobox building` template in an article, follow these steps:
1. **Edit the Article:** Open the Wikipedia article you want to add the infobox to in edit mode. 2. **Insert the Template Code:** At the beginning of the article (usually near the top), insert the following code:
```wiki Template loop detected: Template:Infobox building ```
3. **Fill in the Parameters:** Replace the empty values after each parameter name with the corresponding information for the building. Remember that `name` and `location` are required. 4. **Preview and Save:** Click the "Show preview" button to see how the infobox will look. If everything is correct, click the "Publish changes" button to save your edits.
- Example:**
Let's say you're adding an infobox for the Empire State Building. Here's how the template code might look:
```wiki Template loop detected: Template:Infobox building ```
Best Practices and Tips
- **Consistency:** Use the same parameters and formatting for all building infoboxes on the wiki.
- **Accuracy:** Ensure all information is accurate and verifiable. Cite your sources. Consider using reliable sources such as architectural databases, official building websites, and academic publications.
- **Coordinates:** *Always* include coordinates using the `Template:Coord` template. This adds significant value to the infobox.
- **Image Quality:** Use high-resolution, well-composed images.
- **Units:** Specify height in either meters or feet, but not both. The template automatically converts.
- **Linking:** Link relevant terms to other Wikipedia articles (e.g., architect names, architectural styles). This improves navigation and provides readers with more information. For example, linking to Architectural style or History of architecture.
- **Template Documentation:** Refer to the official template documentation page for the most up-to-date information and a complete list of parameters: Template:Infobox building/doc.
- **Avoid Redundancy:** Don't repeat information that is already clearly stated in the main text of the article. The infobox should *summarize* key facts, not duplicate them.
- **Use appropriate parameters:** Don't try to force information into a parameter that doesn't quite fit. If a suitable parameter doesn't exist, consider adding a note instead.
- **Consider using a sandbox:** Before making changes to a live article, test your infobox edits in a sandbox environment to ensure they look as expected.
- **Be mindful of screen readers:** Ensure the infobox is accessible to users with disabilities. Use clear and concise language in the caption and notes.
Advanced Techniques
- **Conditional Parameters:** You can use conditional statements within the template to display certain parameters only if specific conditions are met. This requires a more advanced understanding of MediaWiki templates.
- **Data from Wikidata:** The `Infobox building` template can be linked to data stored on Wikidata, allowing for automatic population of certain fields. This is a more advanced technique that requires familiarity with Wikidata and its query language.
- **Custom Styling:** While generally discouraged, you can sometimes override the default styling of the infobox using CSS. However, this should be done with caution to avoid breaking the template's layout.
Troubleshooting
- **Infobox Not Displaying:** Check for syntax errors in your template code. Make sure all required parameters are present.
- **Incorrect Information:** Double-check the accuracy of the information you've entered.
- **Image Not Showing:** Verify that the image file exists on the wiki and that the filename is correct. Ensure the image is not protected or restricted.
- **Coordinates Not Working:** Make sure you're using the `Template:Coord` template correctly and that the latitude and longitude values are valid.
Related Templates and Concepts
- Template:Infobox skyscraper: A more specialized infobox for skyscrapers.
- Template:Coord: The template used for specifying geographic coordinates.
- Help:Templates: A general guide to using templates on MediaWiki.
- Wikipedia:Manual of Style/Infoboxes: Guidelines for using infoboxes on Wikipedia.
- Wikipedia:WikiProject Architecture: A collaborative project dedicated to improving articles about architecture.
Financial Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Trading involves risk, and you could lose money. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. The links provided at the end of this article are affiliate links, and we may receive a commission if you sign up through them.
Start Trading Now
Sign up at IQ Option (Minimum deposit $10) Open an account at Pocket Option (Minimum deposit $5)
Join Our Community
Subscribe to our Telegram channel @strategybin to receive: ✓ Daily trading signals ✓ Exclusive strategy analysis ✓ Market trend alerts ✓ Educational materials for beginners ```
Best Practices and Tips
- **Consistency:** Use the same parameters and formatting for all building infoboxes on the wiki.
- **Accuracy:** Ensure all information is accurate and verifiable. Cite your sources. Consider using reliable sources such as architectural databases, official building websites, and academic publications.
- **Coordinates:** *Always* include coordinates using the `Template:Coord` template. This adds significant value to the infobox.
- **Image Quality:** Use high-resolution, well-composed images.
- **Units:** Specify height in either meters or feet, but not both. The template automatically converts.
- **Linking:** Link relevant terms to other Wikipedia articles (e.g., architect names, architectural styles). This improves navigation and provides readers with more information. For example, linking to Architectural style or History of architecture.
- **Template Documentation:** Refer to the official template documentation page for the most up-to-date information and a complete list of parameters: Template:Infobox building/doc.
- **Avoid Redundancy:** Don't repeat information that is already clearly stated in the main text of the article. The infobox should *summarize* key facts, not duplicate them.
- **Use appropriate parameters:** Don't try to force information into a parameter that doesn't quite fit. If a suitable parameter doesn't exist, consider adding a note instead.
- **Consider using a sandbox:** Before making changes to a live article, test your infobox edits in a sandbox environment to ensure they look as expected.
- **Be mindful of screen readers:** Ensure the infobox is accessible to users with disabilities. Use clear and concise language in the caption and notes.
Advanced Techniques
- **Conditional Parameters:** You can use conditional statements within the template to display certain parameters only if specific conditions are met. This requires a more advanced understanding of MediaWiki templates.
- **Data from Wikidata:** The `Infobox building` template can be linked to data stored on Wikidata, allowing for automatic population of certain fields. This is a more advanced technique that requires familiarity with Wikidata and its query language.
- **Custom Styling:** While generally discouraged, you can sometimes override the default styling of the infobox using CSS. However, this should be done with caution to avoid breaking the template's layout.
Troubleshooting
- **Infobox Not Displaying:** Check for syntax errors in your template code. Make sure all required parameters are present.
- **Incorrect Information:** Double-check the accuracy of the information you've entered.
- **Image Not Showing:** Verify that the image file exists on the wiki and that the filename is correct. Ensure the image is not protected or restricted.
- **Coordinates Not Working:** Make sure you're using the `Template:Coord` template correctly and that the latitude and longitude values are valid.
Related Templates and Concepts
- Template:Infobox skyscraper: A more specialized infobox for skyscrapers.
- Template:Coord: The template used for specifying geographic coordinates.
- Help:Templates: A general guide to using templates on MediaWiki.
- Wikipedia:Manual of Style/Infoboxes: Guidelines for using infoboxes on Wikipedia.
- Wikipedia:WikiProject Architecture: A collaborative project dedicated to improving articles about architecture.
Financial Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Trading involves risk, and you could lose money. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. The links provided at the end of this article are affiliate links, and we may receive a commission if you sign up through them.
Start Trading Now
Sign up at IQ Option (Minimum deposit $10) Open an account at Pocket Option (Minimum deposit $5)
Join Our Community
Subscribe to our Telegram channel @strategybin to receive: ✓ Daily trading signals ✓ Exclusive strategy analysis ✓ Market trend alerts ✓ Educational materials for beginners