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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 12:52:34 GMT -5
Welcome to Domhantir Q&A! Here, the staff has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about our forum. Whether you're a guest just dropping by, or a longtime member with a nagging question or concern, you can find the answers you're looking for right here, without having to dig through mountains of old threads. We've even organized the questions and answers into categories to make your search easier.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 12:56:04 GMT -5
Getting Started:
What is Domhantir? Domhantir: The Writer’s Realm is a forum geared for young creative writers interested in improving their craft through collaborative writing and constructive criticism.
What kind of people join Domhantir? Most of Domhantir’s members are high school or college age students, but anyone interested in writing is welcome to join! We have no age restriction for membership.
What’s in it for me? By joining Domhantir, you’ll gain access to a community of writers dedicated to helping you improve by giving you personal feedback and instruction. You’ll also have access to various tools and resources, as well as academic help.
I’m a busy person. How much of a time commitment do I have to make to Domhantir? As much or as little as you wish. Domhantir has no activity requirements, so whether you can only log on once a month, or spend six hours a day cruising our site, we’re glad to have you!
The size and complexity of Domhantir have me a bit overwhelmed. Where should I begin? You’re already in the right place. Begin by reading our Newcomer's Tutorial, rules, and guidebook threads. Once you’ve registered an account, introduce yourself in our “handshake thread” in the Really Loud Tavern, located in The Square, and tell us a bit about yourself by posting in our Dossier File.
Where am I allowed to post as an unauditioned member? As an unauditioned member, you may post in any thread on any of the Out of Character Boards, on the school support boards, in the Cat and Cradle Inn board in Aetherae, and in any collaborative open to unauditioned members. You may also post a character bio on the Applications board, and post in your audition thread on the Auditions board.
I have a question that I can’t find the answer to in the Guidebook. How can I get my question answered? Post your question in our “questions” thread, located on the Introduction Board. Or, ask a staff member by sending them a private message.
Who can I contact for support and guidance? Any of our staff members are available to provide support and guidance for new members. You can contact one of our staff members by sending them a private message, or posting a concern on one of the boards in The Square. Currently, our staff members are:
Head Administrator: Beolakh (username: admin)
Administrators: Fvarithaieyri, Tydus (username: rivus), Andunare
Moderators: Ashlyn, Tirame (username: kirannaviyani), Ballo di Parola, Myfanawy (username: mysterioustwinkie), Eowyn of Rohan
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:01:54 GMT -5
Character Creation:
I’ve created an account! Now what should I do? First of all, congratulations! We are so glad that you have chosen to join us. Now that you’ve created an account, you’re ready to begin the process of becoming a full-fledged member of Domhantir. That process begins with a decision: do you want to register as a roleplaying or non-replaying member or our forum? For more information on what it means to be a non-roleplaying member, see the NRP Accounts section of this thread. For roleplaying members, the registration process begins with the creation of a roleplaying character.
What is the point of creating a character?
The character (or characters) you create on Domhantir will be the character whose point of view you write from when you roleplay in the world of Domhantir, and also when you write your audition. Therefore, creating a character is the first thing we require you do after registration.
How do I create a character? For information on how to create a character, see our Character Creation Tutorial thread.
What do you mean by numerical rankings for my character’s skills? One of the parts of the Domhantir character bio asks you to describe your character’s skills. For each of these skills, you must also include a number, 1 through 8, indicating your character’s proficiency with that skill. The scale is as follows: 0: No skill; 2: Poor; 4: Decent; 6: Skilled; 8: Very skilled. For example, a master swordsman with years of training would have a swordsmanship skill ranked 7 or 8, while a character who has only just begun training with a wooden sword might have a swordsmanship skill ranked only 1 or 2. Please also note that no more than one skill ranked 8 is allowed at registration.
I have more than one idea for a good character. How many characters am I allowed to have? As many as you like. Keep in mind, though, that though there is no requirement for how active your characters must be, it is more constructive to use your existing characters in threads and stories than to let them gather dust while you create new characters.
How soon am I allowed to create a second character? You may create a secondary character at any time.
How do I create a secondary character? In order to create a secondary character, you must create a new account solely for that character. Then, post your character’s bio with that character’s account.
Do I have to have another audition when I create a second character? No. In the “audition type” heading of your second character bio, simply mark N/A; alternate character of <your username>.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:04:04 GMT -5
NRP Accounts:
What does it mean to be a non-roleplaying (NRP) member? Non-roleplaying, or NRP, members are members solely interested in Domhantir’s academic and creative writing aspects, and wish to bypass the character creation section of registration. If you wish to register as an NRP member, rather than post a character bio, simply post an NRP membership form on the Applications Board. NRP members are required to have a solo-style audition, but are not required to take an rp etiquette quiz. NRP members also cannot roleplay.
I joined as an NRP member, but now I would like to switch to a roleplaying account. How can I do this? Easy as pie. Just post a character bio on the Applications Board and take a short rp etiquette quiz.
Do I have to have another audition when I switch? Nope. All you have to do is take a short, multiple-choice roleplaying etiquette quiz via private message.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:06:46 GMT -5
The Audition: Why do you require that new members complete an audition?We require that you complete an audition upon joining in order to give the staff of Domhantir an idea of where you are at as a writer. Domhantir is a place committed to helping young writers grow and improve. Your audition tells us a bit about who you are as a writer; how much experience you have, what your style is, where you excel- and perhaps also where you might benefit from constructive criticism. We do not use your audition or your resulting tier placement to judge you! All auditioned members, no matter what their tier placement, have equal access to all that Domhantir has to offer. Your tier placement is also not permanent. By requesting a subsequent audition or submitting a masterwork thread, you may move up in tier after your initial placement. What are the two types of auditions? We offer two types of auditions: solo-style and roleplaying-style. (For more information on the two types of auditions, please read our Auditioning Tutorial thread on the Tutorials Board.) Which type of audition do you recommend? Though you are free to request either type of audition, we do recommend that you take a solo-style audition. Solo-style auditions are shorter and are generally less time consuming and energy intensive for both auditionee and auditioner, so you’ll have access to our Workshop and World Boards sooner. How do I begin my audition? You don’t. After your character bio or NRP application has been approved, you’ll be contacted by a staff member concerning your audition. A staff member will then begin your audition thread on the Auditions Board. After that, it’s your turn to post. How do I write a successful audition? For tips on how to write a great audition, check out our Auditioning Tutorial thread on the Tutorials Board. I chose to take a solo-style audition. What is my rp-etiquette quiz? After you finish your solo-audition, a staff member will send you a brief, multiple-choice quiz via private message. The quiz will test your knowledge of Domhantir’s roleplaying rules and guidelines, to verify that you are familiar with them, and ready to roleplay. (Members who complete roleplaying-style auditions are not required to take the quiz because their audition gives us an indication of how well they know the rules.) I’ve finished my audition, but I’d like to continue the story as a roleplaying thread. May I do so? Absolutely! PM a staff member and ask them to move your thread to the appropriate World Board. What can I do now that I’ve completed my audition? Congratulations! Now that your audition is complete, you have officially become a full-fledged member of Domhantir. You now have full access to the Workshop Boards, and may post creative writing and receive feedback. You may also participate in contests and projects, and, if you have posted an approved character bio, participate in roleplaying threads on the World Boards.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:09:12 GMT -5
The Tier System: What is the tier system?
The tier system is Domhantir’s way of tracking you progress as a writer, from the completion of your first audition onward. After completing their audition, every member receives a tier placement of I or II. Members are accepted to tier III only after submitting a masterwork thread for judging.
Why does Domhantir use a tier system to rank its members?
Domhantir uses a tier system to track the growth and progress of its members’ writing ability- not to judge them! Members of tier I have the same access and privileges of tier III members.
What are the three tiers?
The three tiers are Tier I: Initiate; Tier II: Crafter; and Tier III: Artisan.
How is my tier decided?
Your tier placement is determined by your performance in your audition. As such, your tier placement is only a loose and imperfect classification of where you are at as a writer. All aspects of your audition performance, including your ability to plan and execute a coherent roleplaying thread/ incorporate the elements of your audition prompt into your story, are taken into account when determining you tier. I was placed in tier I or tier II. Does this mean that I’m not allowed to post or participate in certain areas?
No! All auditioned members, regardless of tier, have equal access to all areas of Domhantir. Your tier is not restrictive.
What does my tier mean?
Though members of all tiers have access to the same areas, your tier, as a measure of your writing experience, is used by the staff. For example, tier I members are given slightly less difficult prompts for the Domhantir Challenge contest than members of tier III. Your tier can also help the staff select a mentor for you, if you apply to the Apprentice-Mentorship Program.
I was placed in tier I. How can move up to tier II?
At least two weeks after the end of your last audition, you may request another audition in order to attempt to move up to tier II.
I was placed in tier II. How can I move up to tier III?
Members of tier II cannot move up to tier III by requesting another audition. In order to attempt to move to tier III, you must submit a masterwork thread to the staff for consideration. (For more information about masterwork threads and judging, see the Masterworks section of this thread.)
How soon after the end of my first audition may I request a second?
You must wait at least two weeks after the end of your last audition before requesting another.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:11:43 GMT -5
The Masterwork:
What is a masterwork?
A masterwork thread is any work you feel to be exemplary of your prowess as an experienced writer. Your masterwork should clearly display your talent and skill, as well as your own unique style and voice. Hit us with your very best shot!
Does a masterwork have to be a complete work?
Yes. Your masterwork must be a complete, polished story with a clear beginning, middle, and end, with development throughout.
Does a masterwork have to be a long, complicated story or thread?
Not necessarily. Your masterwork does not have to be a novel or an epic. If your best piece of writing is a short story or a brief thread, that’s fine too.
May I use a roleplaying thread in which others participated for my masterwork?
Yes. Keep in mind, however, that your masterwork should showcase your skill as a writer. Make sure that the thread contains enough of your own writing to give a clear picture of your abilities.
How do I know if I’m ready to advance to tier III?
Tier III, like tiers I and II, is a loose definition. Writers in tier III are superior storytellers, and have mastered a wide variety of elements and techniques which enhance their writing. Their stories go above and beyond the solid work of tier II members, displaying an unusual poignancy and depth of character. If you feel your writing has progressed since you were admitted to tier II, you may be ready to advance to tier III.
(This section is still under construction)
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:14:32 GMT -5
The Points System:
(This section is still under construction.)
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:17:10 GMT -5
Roleplaying:
Who may participate in a roleplaying thread?
Any auditioned member may participate in a roleplaying thread. Unauditioned members may participate in roleplaying threads only on the Cat and Cradle Inn Board in Aetherae.
Where may I roleplay as an unauditioned member?
If you are an unauditioned member, you may still participate in roleplaying threads on the Cat and Cradle Inn Sub-Board, located on the Aetherae Board. I’m an unauditioned member, and I have a great idea for a roleplaying thread, but it doesn’t take place near the Cat and Cradle Inn, or even in Aetherae. May I still post it on the Cat and Cradle Inn board?
Yes, you may. Your thread does not necessarily have to take place in Aetherae or involve the Cat and Cradle Inn. You must post it on the Cat and Cradle Inn Sub-Board, however, regardless of its setting.
How do I begin a roleplaying thread?
Great question. You can begin a roleplaying thread in several ways, depending on what type of thread you want it to be. Writing a solo-thread? Planning a two-player thread with another member? Simply start a thread on the appropriate World Board. If you are planning a thread with more than two members, you might want to begin a discussion thread in the Writer’s Roost Café as well, so that you and your roleplaying partners can plan and coordinate your thread more easily. Also, always be sure to designate the type of thread and the names of the members/ characters involved at the top of your first post.
What are the different types of roleplaying threads?
There are three basic categories of roleplaying threads on Domhantir: solo-threads; collaborative, or basic roleplaying threads; and authors’ duel threads. (For more information about the different types of roleplaying threads, please see our Roleplaying Tutorial.)
How can I convince others to join my thread?
Have an idea for a thread with more than one character, but don’t know who to ask to join you? Try starting a discussion thread asking for volunteers on the Writer’s Roost Café Board in the Square. If you have a specific person in mind, send them a private message asking them if they would like to join. How do I write a good roleplaying thread?
For tips on how to write a good roleplaying thread, and on Domhantir’s roleplaying rules, please see our Roleplaying Tutorial thread.
Does my thread have to take place in the world of Domhantir?
Yes and no. The majority of your thread should take place in the world of Domhantir, even if your location is unspecified, or if your thread takes place in an area not mentioned in the Domhantir Almanac. If your character begins in another world and journeys to Domhantir, that’s fine. If you wish to write a thread which takes place in a completely different world, start a collaborative writing project on the Collaboratives Board.
My thread takes place on multiple continents, or not on any continent at all. What board can I post it on?
Post your thread on the Other Regions board in the World of Domhantir section.
I began a thread with several other players, but one or more of them has since gone inactive. What should I do?
Unfortunately, there may not be much you can do; this is one of the downsides of collaborative writing. You can try to contact the inactive players and persuade them to post, or you may submit the incomplete thread for scoring and move on to a new thread.
Can an incomplete thread still be scored?
Yes. If a thread has been abandoned by one or more of its players, the remaining player or players may submit it for scoring. Your score will not be as high for an incomplete thread as for a finished thread, but you will still receive some points for your efforts.
What is a sponsored plot?
On some of the World of Domhantir Boards are threads containing sponsored plot prompts. If you choose, you, or you and a group of friends, may sign up to write a roleplaying thread incorporating the elements given in the prompt. When you finish the thread the thread and submit it for scoring, along with your points you will also receive a bonus in-game prize, depending on your score. The prizes and the scores needed to earn them are listed at the bottom of each sponsored plot prompt. Some of the sponsored threads offer you an opportunity to forward the overall plot of the World of Domhantir. Others are simply fun ideas that you can use if you are having trouble thinking of a good plot premise. You can sign up for a sponsored plot by posting to claim the plot of your choice in the Sponsored Plot thread.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:20:13 GMT -5
Creative Writing
(This section is still under construction.)
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:22:20 GMT -5
Collaboratives:
What is a collaborative writing project?
A collaborative writing project is a story which several authors write in collaboration with one another, without some of the limitations placed on standard roleplaying threads in the world of Domhantir. A collaborative is begun by a “talemaker”, who creates the concept, characters, and setting of the story and oversees its development and execution. All of the characters in a collaborative are controlled by all of the participating authors, unlike the one character per player system used in roleplaying threads. A collaborative may also be set in a world other than the world of Domhantir, though it does not have to be. Where are collaboratives located?
Collaborative writing projects can be found on the Round Table board, in the Collaboratives section.
I’d like to start my own collaborative. How can I do this?
If you’d like to start your own collaborative, and have earned the required 500 points, post a plot synopsis according to the plot submission template on the Plot Submissions Sub-Board.
How many points do I need to begin a collaborative?
We require that you have earned 500 points before you may begin your own collaborative.
Who can post in a collaborative?
That depends on the collaborative. Who can post in a collaborative is up to the member who runs that collaborative. Some are open to all members, while others may be open only to auditioned members.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:25:37 GMT -5
Giving and Receiving Feedback:
I posted a work in the Library. How can I receive feedback for my work?
When you post your work, set the message icon to “question mark”. Then, post a request for feedback on the Feedback Requests thread located on the Bulletin Board in the Square. Who can give feedback?
Anyone! Every writer loves to know that their work is being read and appreciated by others. Even if you can only post a couple sentences of praise, please, don’t hesitate to do so.
Who can receive feedback?
Anyone! Ask, and you shall receive. Constructive criticism is at the heart of Domhantir’s mission.
What types of work can receive feedback?
Any and all. Creative writing, academic work, poetry, roleplaying threads, collaborative posts, special projects, even artwork, all are eligible for feedback.
How do I write good feedback?
For tips on how to write good feedback, see our Feedback Tutorial (coming soon!).
Where should I post my feedback/ where can I find feedback for my own work?
You can post feedback and find feedback others have written for your own work on the Feedback Board, located in the Workshop Section. The feedback board is organized into sub-boards which correspond to the sub-boards in the Library. Please post your feedback on the appropriate sub-board, according to what sub-board the original work was posted on in the Library. There are also extra sub-boards for feedback for roleplaying threads, collaborative posts, and contests/ projects. If you are writing feedback for an academic essay, please post it in a reply to the original thread in The Training Room.
How can I earn points for the feedback I write?
(This section is still under construction.)
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:27:28 GMT -5
Projects and Contests:
What is a contest?
A contest is an ongoing, generally small-scale writing competition open to all auditioned members. Each contests uses a specific prompt and/ or requirements to stretch a writer’s creativity and capability.
What is a project?
Unlike a contest, a project is not ongoing, but has a specific timeframe for participation. Projects are large-scale writing competitions, and are often held during times of increased activity, such as summer break. Who can participate in projects and contests?
Any auditioned member may participate in contests and projects, unless otherwise specified. Prompts/ requirements may differ slightly depending on your tier placement, however.
What project is currently in progress?
At the moment, we are not sponsoring a project.
What contests are currently available?
The Domhantir Challenge is our only contest currently available.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:30:07 GMT -5
The Almanac and The Shelf:
What is the Almanac?
The Almanac is a compendium of articles describing the world of Domhantir: its people, geography, history, flora, fauna, mythos, and more. In the Almanac you can find a timeline of important events in Domhantir’s history, maps of each of the major continents, information about each nation’s culture, government, and commerce, and descriptions of some of Domhantir’s playable races. All of the articles in the Almanac have been written by our members- people just like you! What is the Shelf?
The Shelf is a collection of articles concerning aspects of the writer’s craft: grammar, punctuation, character development, story telling, style, and much more. Here you can find articles to help you improve and refine your writing. Just like the articles of the Almanac, the Shelf articles have all been written by members, and are open to additions of your own.
Why won’t the forum allow me to post my article in the Almanac?
The Almanac boards are locked; in order to have your article added to the Almanac, you must first submit it for approval on the Almanac Submissions Board. Once it has been approved, a staff member will move your thread onto the Almanac Boards.
Who can submit articles for approval to the Almanac and the Shelf?
Any member may submit articles for admission to the Almanac and Shelf.
What kinds of articles does the Almanac accept? The Shelf?
The Almanac accepts all articles concerning the world of Domhantir, so long as they do not suggest major world changes, or conflict with an article written by another member. Likewise, the Shelf accepts articles dealing with aspects of the writing process.
I wrote an article which deals with writing for academic purposes (essays, timed writing, etc.) Where should I submit it?
If your article deals with academic writing, you should submit it to the Intel Room in the School Support section, rather than to the Shelf. The Shelf is generally for articles which deal with writing outside of school. Is there any set formula or template that an article must follow?
No; however, the staff has provided suggested templates for certain types of Almanac articles, for members wondering what to include in their submissions.
I have a article that I would like to submit to the Almanac. Where may I post it for approval?
You should post your article on the Almanac Submissions Board.
I have an article that I would like to submit to the Shelf. Where may I post it for approval?
You should post your article on the Submissions Sub-Board of the Shelf.
What does an article need in order to be added to the Almanac or the Shelf?
Articles for both the Almanac and the Shelf should be clear, and well-written, with good grammar and punctuation. If you are submitting an article to the Almanac, make sure that it is believable, and that it fits in with the existing world of Domhantir. If you are submitting a Shelf article, make sure that your information is accurate and reliable, and that you have extensive knowledge of the subject you are writing about.
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Post by Andunare on Dec 23, 2008 13:31:43 GMT -5
The Apprenticeship Program:
What is the apprentice/ mentorship program?
The Apprentice/ Mentorship program allows less experienced writers interested in receiving personal attention and instruction to be paired with more experienced “mentors” willing to teach them one on one. Apprentices can receive more punctual, in-depth feedback and advice, while their mentors gain the experience of tutoring another writer. Who can apply to be an apprentice?
Anyone, regardless of tier or experience level, may apply to be mentored.
Who can apply to be a mentor?
Though anyone may apply to become a mentor, we ask that mentors be experienced writers capable of bearing the responsibility of teaching another writer.
What are the benefits of being an apprentice?
That depends on your mentor. If your mentor is willing to make a large time commitment, they can give feedback more quickly and tailor their comments to fit your specific strengths and weaknesses. You can ask your mentor for help and advice about writing projects, and perhaps even strike up a friendship.
What responsibilities does a mentor have?
As a mentor, you should be prepared to give feedback for your apprentice’s work, address their weakness, praise them for success, and answer any questions they might have. Being a mentor is a significant time commitment, so make sure that you can handle the responsibility before applying.
How can I apply?
To apply to be a mentor or apprentice, post an application in Apprentice/ Mentorship Program thread in the Writer’s Roost Café.
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