9 Surprising Things You Can Do with Wikipedia

As the world’s largest free online encyclopedia, Wikipedia is a treasure trove of information. Most people use it as a quick reference tool, but there’s so much more you can do with it. From learning new skills to finding creative inspiration, here are 9 unexpected ways to use Wikipedia.

1. Learn a New Language

Wikipedia has articles in over 300 languages, making it an excellent resource for language learners. Start by searching for a topic you’re interested in and switch to the language you want to learn. For example, if you’re learning French, search for “French cuisine” on the French Wikipedia site. Not only will you improve your language skills, but you’ll also pick up new knowledge along the way.

2. Discover Your Family History

Curious about your ancestors? Wikipedia has a wealth of information on historical figures, events, and locations. Start by searching for your surname and see where it leads you. You can also look up the history of the town or region your family is from. From there, you might find articles on notable people, landmarks, or events that are relevant to your family’s past.

3. Get Creative Ideas

If you’re stuck in a creative rut, Wikipedia can spark your imagination. Browse through articles on art, literature, music, and film to discover new ideas. You can also search for specific techniques, movements, or artists that interest you. For example, if you’re a painter, look up “abstract expressionism” or “color field painting” to learn more about those styles.

4. Plan Your Next Trip

Travel planning can be overwhelming, but Wikipedia has useful information on destinations around the world. Start by searching for the country or city you want to visit and explore the article’s sections on culture, history, landmarks, and cuisine. You might also find helpful tips on transportation, accommodations, and local customs.

5. Improve Your Writing

Whether you’re a student or a professional writer, Wikipedia can help you improve your craft. Start by reading articles on topics related to your writing, such as grammar, style, and storytelling. You can also look up the works of your favorite writers and analyze their techniques. Additionally, Wikipedia has a section on writing guides that includes tips on academic writing, creative writing, and journalism.

6. Explore Science and Technology

For geeks and tech enthusiasts, Wikipedia is a goldmine of information. From physics to genetics, there are thousands of articles on cutting-edge research and technologies. You can also learn about the history of science and technology, as well as the pioneers who made breakthroughs in these fields.

7. Brush Up on Your History

History buffs will love Wikipedia’s extensive coverage of world history. You can read about ancient civilizations, medieval wars, and modern revolutions. You can also learn about the lives of famous historical figures, from Julius Caesar to Martin Luther King Jr. Additionally, Wikipedia has articles on local histories, such as the history of your town or state.

8. Find Health Information

While Wikipedia is not a replacement for medical advice, it can be a helpful resource for health-related topics. You can learn about medical conditions, treatments, and drugs. You can also read articles on nutrition, exercise, and mental health. However, it’s important to be critical of the information you find and consult a healthcare professional for any concerns.

9. Solve Trivia Questions

Finally, for trivia lovers, Wikipedia is a great source of obscure facts and figures. You can use it to answer questions on history, science, art, and popular culture. Additionally, Wikipedia has a feature called “Did You Know?” that highlights interesting and little-known facts about various topics.

In conclusion, Wikipedia is more than just a reference tool. It’s a versatile and valuable resource that can help you learn new skills, find creative inspiration, and explore new topics. So the next time you visit Wikipedia, try one of these unexpected uses and see where it takes you.