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Mapper since:: April 19, 2014

Are you coming from Wikipedia?
Or from PokemonGo?

What is OpenStreetMap?

OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a world-wide collaborative project aiming at providing free map data, under an open license, to anyone who wants it. Volunteers all over the planet, like you, contribute their local knowledge and their time to build the best map ever. The data in OpenStreetMap is as diverse as its contributors; it serves motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, seafarers and canoeists alike.
You can map much more than just streets. Building outlines, landcover, waterways, railways and civilisation amenities have their place in the database, down to individual trees, opening times of shops, or even indoor building layouts. Wheelmap helps people with disabilities, Niantic uses OSM data for Pokemon Go, and Kurviger can show routes for motorcyclists that are more curvy and outside of residential areas. There are many more examples how the data you contribute is used.

Isn’t mapping complicated?

No. The world of OpenStreetMap consists of three basic elements. Points (nodes), lines (ways) and areas. They get their values through so called tags (like name=Στέκι Μεταναστών). For example,

name=Στέκι Μεταναστών
amenity=community_centre
community_centre:for=migrant
opening_hours=20:00-24:00
website=https://tsamadou13-15.espivblogs.net/
We use nodes for shops, small features like fountains or bicycle repair stations.
Ways for roads, paths, small waterways.
Areas for forests, buildings and ponds.

How can I edit?

We have two main editors for mapping with a PC. iD and JOSM. JOSM is an advanced standalone editor but it might be better to have some experience before you begin mapping with it.
To map with your (Android) mobile phone you can use
** EveryDoor
** StreetComplete You answer questions and edit things that are already mapped.
** OsmAnd - you have to enable the OSM editing plugin
** Organic Maps
** Cityzenapp
** Vespucci
There are also OSM editors for Apple phones. Please note that all the apps above are created and maintained by community members or companies.

What are some “unwritten” rules?

Don’t copy from other maps.
Map what’s on the ground.
Have a look in the Wiki, many tags are described there.
Copy from other parts of the world, where something is already mapped. Germany is mapped in great detail.
Ask! Other mappers will help you, ask on help and support or on country-specific OSM mailing lists and IRC channels
Don’t use the name tag to describe the object. For example, name=bench, instead use amenity=bench. Use tags to classify objects instead of name. Name should only be used for features with actual names, like buildings or restaurants.

What is considered good mapping?

Good Practice tips
Good Changeset comments
Check if the satellite layer is misaligned. Compare the satellite layer with existing streets and gps traces.
Don’t delete stuff, without first asking the mapper why they mapped something in a particular way. Maybe you just have old satellite data.

What else?

Most common mapping mistakes
This website shows you other mappers near you, if you want to connect.
List of useful OSM-based websites, where your changes appear
Upcoming OSM Events - Maybe there’s a social meet up near you. It’s always good to talk to people face to face. Sometimes they can help you.

How can I help besides mapping?

Become a member of the OSM Foundation. ** Normal members provide their full residential address and can vote on all issues. They can also be candidates in the election to Board. ** Associate members provide just their country of residence and can vote - but not on all issues. More information here.
Donate
Join the volunteers of one of the OSM Foundation’s Working Groups
Upload GPS traces
Spread the word about OpenStreetMap!

Sources: OSMF leaflet, reddit post