Predictions

[boyd_smythe]

boyd:
As promised, I've been thinking about predictions and how to handle 
them, and I have a few *somewhat* leading questions. <g>

* When coding a prediction, should we code it as both a prediction and 
also whatever other topics the prediction covers? For example, might 
predicting a war at Hogwarts include both 1.13.4.2 (Book 7, 
Predictions/no canon) and 1.2.3 (War & Miltary Strategy, Hogwarts 
Defences)? This would allow cross-checking for predictions regarding 
specific subjects for prediction-geeks like me.
* Should the many TBAYs that are both interpretations of canon *and* 
predictions be coded to predictions, as well? Again, this would allow 
easier cross-checking.
* Do any SHIPs belong in predictions? For example, "I think Hermione 
will end up with Harry when the series is over, because in PoA ...." 
In some ways, most SHIPping is prediction, since the arguments 
eventually get around to who JKR will have with whom in future books; 
so perhaps the SHIP codes are sufficient here. Plus, SHIPpers be a 
foul lot of scallywags, arrh, and must be kept apart from more simple 
folk. <];)
* When coding a prediction that is *not* book-specific (e.g. "someone 
will be Imperio'd, and I think it's Ron"), where does that go, Book 6 
or Book 7? Should we add a category for such predictions? (please, 
please, otherwise we'll be choosing willy-nilly between books 6 & 7 
and adding no value to our poor members).
* Should there be specific codes for the big prediction topics that 
have no current category, such as how/whether LV will be defeated? Who 
will die? Will the Cubs ever win the World Series? Will anyone ever 
come up with a cleaner that gets out tough grass stains? (OK, maybe 
just the first two.)

--boyd
[Ed. Note: Not actually a Cubs fan.]