Wikipedia:Requests for comment/How to present a case

This is an information page. It is not an encyclopedic article, nor one of Wikipedia's policies or guidelines; rather, its purpose is to explain certain aspects of Wikipedia's norms, customs, technicalities, or practices. It may reflect differing levels of consensus and vetting.

Shortcut WP:RFC/HOW

Please note that this guide is descriptive, not normative. That is to say, it explicitly does not deal with the ongoing controversy over how the community and those involved in RFCs should behave. It is based on empirical observation of what arguments have worked and which ones have not, as well as upon discussions with editors about what they pay attention to.

There are three very important things to realize about RFCs:

1. They are a request for comments, to the entire world, not a court hearing;
2. Product is much more important than process.
3. If they do not resolve the situation, they may lead to ArbCom cases (see ArbCom's guide to arbitration).

Almost everything you need to know about making or responding to an RFC is an extension of one of those three facts.

The absolute best way to fare well in an RFC is to not do things wrong. If you are trolling, actively POV pushing, or generally being an asshole, there is no guide in the world that can help you. Don't do that.