Contributors maintain VerseDB's accuracy. This covers the standards for accuracy, conflicting sources, writing tone, spoilers, and mature content.
For field-specific guidelines (formatting, character limits, which fields each content type has), see Content Edit Guidelines and Best Practices.
Accuracy#
Every submission must be based on verifiable facts.
Rule
If you can't verify something, leave it blank. Incomplete data is better than incorrect data.
Different edits need different levels of proof:
| Edit type | Sources | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | 1 | Typo fixes, formatting |
| Standard | 2 | Descriptions, dates, credits |
| Complex | 3+ | Relationship changes, major additions |
When Sources Conflict#
Before picking sides, check the context — is one source newer and correcting an error? Are they describing different editions (original vs reprint)? Is a retcon involved?
Example
If a printed comic credits Writer A but a website lists Writer B, trust the printed comic.
If there's no clear resolution, document both versions in the field or notes: "Sources conflict on [detail]. [Source 1] states [X]; [Source 2] indicates [Y]."
Writing Tone#
Descriptions should be clear, neutral, and factual.
- Write in third person ("Batman is…" not "You play as…")
- State verifiable claims ("Won the Eisner Award")
- Present tense for current info, past tense for history
- Include personal opinions ("the best run ever")
- Use promotional language ("Don't miss this epic saga!")
- Sensationalize or write in first/second person
Spoilers#
- Series and character descriptions — general premise and setup are fine; avoid major plot reveals. Historical events are acceptable for completed series.
- Issue descriptions — spoilers are allowed but should be prefixed. Use
[SPOILERS] This issue reveals…and focus on setup rather than outcomes when possible.
Mature Content#
Use the publisher's official age rating — don't invent your own. Examples:
- Marvel: All Ages, T (12+), T+ (15+), Parental Advisory (17+), Explicit (18+)
- DC: Everyone, Teen (12+), Teen Plus (15+), Mature (17+)
Leave the field blank if the rating is unknown.
Set the is_nsfw flag on issues containing graphic violence, sexual content or nudity, strong language throughout, or disturbing themes. The flag affects how the content is shown across the site — when in doubt, mark it.
For mature content, include a brief factual note in the description: "Content Warning: Contains graphic violence and strong language." Keep it professional — don't sensationalize.
Rule
Never submit or link to unauthorized scans, pirated comics, leaked previews, fan-made explicit content, or illegal download sites. Official publisher previews and solicitation images are fine.
Enforcement#
Moderators evaluate submissions against these standards — is the information verifiable, are sources cited, does the writing meet quality expectations, are ratings and flags correct? Repeated issues result in rejections with feedback, slower reviews, and potentially contribution restrictions.
Focus on quality over quantity — a strong approval rate is the best signal you can send.