Twitter is one of the biggest social media platforms out there. If you've been online for any length of time you've probably been urged by someone to set up an account.

"It'll be useful!" they'll say, but you're not sure whether to believe them. However, Twitter is made up of a whole host of different communities, some of which are very geeky indeed.

In this article we explore some geeky Twitter communities that are currently thriving on the platform. And these could be the way into Twitter you've been looking for.

Note: If you're completely new to the platform, it might be worth learning how to use Twitter before reading any further.

1. Science Twitter

Science Twitter was what introduced me to the idea that Twitter is a powerful tool to relay information. With scientists using the platform directly, you can get unfettered access to how our world works.

From simple weather reports to tracking hurricanes, from declining bee populations to rising oceans, Science Twitter can make you more conscious about the natural world. It can also help you act accordingly if a natural disaster is about to hit your area.

2. Book Twitter

One of my favorite parts of Twitter is the creative writing and publishing sphere.

Book Twitter is built around an ecosystem designed to propagate a love of writing. It spans the gamut from readers and reviewers, to authors, agents, and publishing houses.

If you're thinking of writing a novel and you're looking for guidance, or you're seeking community, Twitter is the perfect place to find it.

And if you need some Book Twitter accounts to follow to get you started we recommend PitchWars, Writer's Digest, and NaNoWriMo.

3. News Twitter

Breaking news is a double-edged sword. It's great to stay updated on current events, but the constant feedback loop can also make you feel overwhelmed.

If you are looking to stay up-to-date on the news, Twitter can give you livestreams on political rallies and public hearings. It's also a central hub for journalists and news organizations. They often tweet out links to articles on the subjects they are covering.

4. Space Twitter

Space Twitter is genuinely hopeful in its approach to science. It's always looking towards a better future, sometimes literally.

From breaking info on the #EventHorizonTelescope---the first-ever photograph of a black hole---to the Hubble telescope account, you can find updates on the latest scientific research everytime you open Twitter.

NASA also gives out information on its latest projects, so you can follow humanity's push towards the stars in real-time.

5. Movie Twitter

Movie Twitter is great for two things:

  1. You can find companies releasing trailers and behind-the-scenes footage on upcoming films.
  2. You can find people live-tweeting about movies as they watch them.

This up-to-the-minute reporting should be useful in helping you decide on whether the latest blockbuster is worth paying to see in theaters.

6. Technology Twitter

Technology Twitter coincides with News Twitter a lot of the time, but it's not exactly the same thing.

Filled with links on how-to articles and ongoing discussions over which new piece of technology is better, Twitter is the place to be if you don't have time to skim through longer blog posts. This is especially true if you still want to stay informed on industry developments or data breaches.

Most tech blogs have a Twitter account linking back to their articles. As an example, here's the MakeUseOf Twitter account. And you should follow us before you do anything else.

7. Star Wars Twitter

Star Wars Twitter is thriving, and growing, and somewhat unruly. But if you're a fan of the Jedi or the Sith then Twitter is the best place to get updates on Star Wars events and releases. You can also connect with other Star Wars fans around the world.

A key account to follow is Star Wars Official, and some good hashtags to keep in mind are #StarWars and #StarWarsCelebration.

8. Historical Twitter

Historical Twitter---and the tongue-in-cheek, coffee-drinking academics that populate it---was not something I expected to find when I first joined the platform.

However, with their ability to share their research directly and a desire to talk about underrepresented aspects of history, academics have taken to Twitter with ease. It seems there's now a "tweet thread" for every subject.

Do you want to know all about English rural life during the 20th Century? There's an account for that. How about The Smithsonian Museum, which runs its own profile?

Historical tweets tend to go viral instead of being a constant item, so just keep an eye out for them. If you see historians talking about their areas of expertise, give them a follow too. It's like getting a History Class 101 but without the boring stuff.

9. Job Hunting Twitter

One thing that may shock you about Twitter is that it's surprisingly good for finding jobs, especially for industries that require highly specific skill sets.

This ties into that whole "Twitter is good for networking" thing, and the power of it can't be overstated.

If you're a professional working in the online media or entertainment industries, Twitter can be a goldmine for postings. These posts either come from companies putting out a general call to apply, or individual hiring managers asking people to submit their resumes.

This direct contact allows you to touch base with the people who might be reading your resume. If not, it can connect you with the people who will then pass your resume on to those who can.

There's a Twitter Community for Everyone

Twitter is a good platform for people who want to consume a large amount of information in a short space of time. This is especially true if you want your information delivered with the maximum amount of clarity.

From creative writing and science to news and current affairs, there's a Twitter community for everyone. And by following the right people you can tailor your Twitter feed to see exactly what you want.

Are you still struggling with Twitter? Then you need these free tools that make Twitter even more useful.