Pattern mode is a Wiki Mode that strives to put the page in Pattern Form, with optional discussion and supporting evidence below the main document.
Pattern mode can result from Thread Mode; it is the further focusing of the threaded discussion, by definitive descriptions which can elaborate and qualify -- usually in a factual manner -- the ideas and thoughts which surface in a threaded discussion.
When a discussion is in Thread Mode, if comments seem to be converging (to theme or strong focus), then a Wiki Master can initiate Pattern Mode by suggesting single-paragraph patterns, which capture and focus the ideas present in a threaded discussion.
Pattern Mode paragraphs are better left anonymous, or can be Collectively Signed, so that all contributors know they are welcome to fine-tune them.
It looks like Pattern Mode is special case of Document Mode
See also Wiki Master, Thread Mode
See original on c2.com 