How to organize community categories so members know where to post

Start with a short list of categories

A new member reads empty categories as uncertainty. Three to five categories with visible activity feel intentional and make the next action easier to understand.

Most new communities can begin with announcements, introductions, the main discussion or work area, and help. Add a resource space only when resources are central to the promise.

Name each category for what members do there

A category name should tell a first-time visitor what belongs there without requiring a policy document.

• Use “Ask for help” for questions members are stuck on.
• Use “Share your progress” for updates on work members have done.
• Use “Meet the community” for introductions.
• Use “Announcements” only for information members should not miss.

Add categories when member posts show the need

When one type of conversation repeatedly pushes others down the feed, create a category for it, move or write enough posts in it to show what belongs there, and tell members why it now exists.

If members stop posting in a category, move its posts back into the main discussion and remove it, so new members only see spaces with activity.