Explain why you think I missed the point. Give me a reasonable time to justify or revise my opinion. I'm not an expert on the topic and may have unintentionally overlooked a detail.
If my opinion needs clarification
Please reply in Plain English. I'd appreciate references to Wikipedia guidelines and policies. If I was confusing or you can not see which part of the referenced material applies, then ask me for further clarification. Please remember to remain civil.
If my opinion is not accepted
If my opinion is firmly rejected, it's probably not worth while going over the same ground again. Ask the non-accepting party to clarify their viewpoint and summarize the current situation. Remember to stay cool and give reasonable time for contributions from other editors who may act as local mediators.
Your next step is probably to consider one of the other dispute resolution options. The most common of these at this stage are:
A request for comment, a good solution for agreeing a proposed exception to the guidance, or rejecting it.
Raising a Wikiquette alert, a fair way of dealing with another editor who consistently shows what you think is poor etiquette. Going through the third opinion process should demonstrate that you have made reasonable attempts to resolve issues locally before raising the alert.
Requesting advice on a Wikiproject talk page. Nearly all articles fall within the jurisdiction of a Wikiproject, and the members of that project can be helpful in further bringing about consensus on that page.
If my opinion worked and resolved the dispute
Don't forget to express thanks to everyone involved. Positive feedback is encouraged as it shows that their contributions are appreciated which will help to ensure the future of the third opinion project. If my third opinion was especially thoughtful or particularly helpful, you might consider awarding a Third Opinion Award on my talk page.
