The Coding Basics

This is a massive little blurb just explaining what we use coding / templates for on here and how to get started with it.

1. Are templates absolutely necessary?

No, coding is not a must. However, overall it gives the site a better look. In addition, some users find it actually helps them keep more organized. Others also find using them to be rather fun. Thus, it is recommended, but there will not be a penalty or anything ridiculous like that if you refuse to use templates.

2. When should templates be used?

Templates (other than the necessary one for the profile) are used in plot pages and posts made for in character threads.

3. What if I don't know how to make my own templates?

That's perfectly fine! Many people don't. There are plenty of sites where free templates are available. My personal favourite is -ON THE EDGE-, but if anyone has other sites that are good, please feel free to let me know and I'll add it to the list.

**Note that most of those kinds of sites require you to make an account. Don't be afraid to! They're safe!

In addition, we have people here who know how to code. If you make a request in the code request section, you may be able to get a template made by a fellow member.

**Note that it is not a member's responsibility to make a template for you if they have not agreed to complete your request. Anyone who accepts a request is doing so in their own time and for fun, and should -not- be forced / ridiculed into doing a faster job or into taking the job at all.

4. What if I want to learn how to code myself?

There are plenty of tutorials out there, but my personal favourite can be found HERE. Not only does this person give a detailed and easy-to-follow tutorial, but they give links to other places to help you, and sites to help you with colour schemes and how to make backgrounds. If anyone else has good tutorials that they would like to add, let me know.

**Note that to see the tutorial that I suggested, you will need to make an account on that forum. Don't be afraid to! It's safe!

5. What if someone is using the same template that I wanted to use?

Sometimes this happens. People can have similar tastes in what they want, after all. If someone else is already using a template that you wanted to use, you can still use it. However, it is common courtesy to ask the other member if you can use it too first.

6. What if someone is using a template that I made myself without my permission / using a template that I saw somewhere else and claiming that it's theirs?

Let us know -immediately-. In that case, that person is stealing. We do not tolerate that. The person in question (after investigation) will be sent an e-mail telling them to remove said templates from their posts immediately. If not done so within 24 hours, they will be suspended. Second-time-offenders will be deleted.

-Bottom line: Stealing isn't cool, bro.-

Any other questions? Ask them below!