Write your first article
Your first steps as a contributor: check that the article does not already exist, choose a space, write a clear title, add tags, publish and keep it correct.
A good article meets one need. The steps below use one example: a procedure for customer service advisors on how to handle a refund.
1. Check that it does not already exist
Search for the subject before you write. If an article exists, improve it or ask its owner to update it. This way, there is only one current version.
While you write, Elium can also warn you when similar content already exists.
2. Choose where it belongs
Click "Create" at the top of the page and start an article. Next to the "Save" button, choose the space.
Choose the space where people will look for this subject. If you are not ready to share, choose "Personal Content": only you can see the draft.
3. Write a clear title and introduction
The title decides whether people find and open your article. Use your readers' words, and say what the article helps them do.
| Weak title | Clear title |
|---|---|
| Refunds | How to refund a customer who was billed twice |
| Procedure v3 final | Handle a refund request: who can approve what |
| FAQ | Can a customer get a refund after 30 days? |
In the first lines, say what the article covers and who it is for. Readers and AI agents both use these lines to understand the article.
4. Build the article
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Cover one main subject. If you need two titles, write two articles and link them.
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Use headings, lists and tables. People read a procedure while they do something else.
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Add a block with "/". Type "/" on an empty line to add an image, a table, a file or another block. See Elium's Editor.
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Start from a template if your team has one. Templates give the same structure to articles of the same kind.
5. Add tags
Tags help people find your article. When you publish for the first time, the tag window opens.
Choose existing tags first, and look at the suggestions. Create a new tag only if nothing fits and your platform allows it. To learn more, read Tagging in Elium.
6. Publish or save as a draft
Click "Save", then choose an option:
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Publish: the article is visible to the people who have access to the space.
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Save as draft: nobody is notified. In a space, the other contributors can open the draft. See Use drafts.
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Request approval: this replaces "Publish" in a space where approval is mandatory. A space administrator or coordinator checks the article first.
7. Keep it correct
You are now the owner of this article. To get a reminder to check it:
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Open the article and click the check mark icon at the top.
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Choose a period, for example "Six months", and click "Confirm".
When the date is close, the article appears in "Tasks". Update it or set a new date. Read Keep articles up to date.
Next step
If you are responsible for a space or a whole platform, read Plan your platform.