Admit it, you look at it. And you like it.
Fortunately, there’s a great FREE solution to this: Wikiwand. This fantastic browser plugin (available for Chrome, Firefox or Safari) instantly converts any Wikipedia entry into something readable, easily navigable and actually enjoyable to read. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by a Wikipedia entry, you feel a desire to continue reading.
With Wikiwand, notice how the entry navigation is always on the left, allowing you to quickly jump to anywhere in the article. In the traditional Wikipedia view, this left-hand navigation is taken up with a bunch of links you’ve probably never clicked on.
The text is larger and more friendly. Plus, with extra padding and white space, it’s easier on the eyes to read part-way across the screen rather than the full distance.
With Wikiwand, you can easily customize your view, including font style, screen color, margin and font size.
If you click on an image, it opens up an image gallery displaying all images featured in the post.
There is also a great mobile app for iOS, with an Android app currently in the works. This app functions much the same as the desktop version, but is optimized for mobile devices. It works faster than a traditional web browser and is super slick. The only downside being you must specifically search within the app, rather than doing a generic web search in your Safari app.
The best part of Wikiwand is that it runs in the background on your desktop. Once installed, you never have to think about it. All Wikipedia entries are instantly made beautiful. It’s one of those extensions I can’t live without.
I don't think to use Wikipedia very often, but I'm always amazed at the content available when I do.
I do use Wikipedia often–mainly because that is where I am sent when looking for info on something. I don't have a problem navigating on that site–but I concede that it would be easier on these old eyes if the print were a bit larger!
I do find myself on Wikipedia at least once a week and I think my boys use it even more. We'll have to give Wikiwand a try in our house and see if it makes it easier to find what we're looking for.
I am constantly finding myself using Wikipedia! I didn't know about Wikiwand, I will have to try it out!
You are absolutely right about Wikipedia pages being long and text-heavy – I've not heard o f Wickie want – it does look interesting – thank you, I'll check into it – We do use Wikipedia a few times a week!
I'm going to try this because you're right. Wikipedia is not a pleasant reading experience.
This looks like a great app! I look forward to checking out the android version!
looks like a great app. i love Wiki even though i can't use it as fact.
This app sounds like a really great way to make it easier to find the exact information you're looking for.