> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.wpvotingcontest.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.wpvotingcontest.com/fundamentals/quick-start-guide/create-a-contest-category.md).

# Create a Contest Category

Get ready because I'm about to sound off in the audio contest - for best instructions on how to make a WP voting contest...whoop whoop!

{% hint style="warning" %}
To ensure proper functioning of the plugin, a contest category must be created. Upon adding a contest category, you will receive a unique contest category ID. This ID is used in the short code to display the contest on a page or post.
{% endhint %}

## Add your first Contest Category

1. Navigate to the Contest Menu and select the [Contest Category Menu](/technical-documentation/general-knowledge-base/index/contest-category-menu.md).
2. Select the [Add/Edit Tab](/technical-documentation/general-knowledge-base/index/contest-category-menu/add-edit-tab.md) at the top of the page.

<figure><img src="https://819667019-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FVt3NYJaeQmaPhGtMeyct%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-80e7a57db302341beba9af7e9b264f48b06d7627%2Fgitbook_create_a_contest_step1_1(1).jpg?alt=media" alt=""><figcaption><p>Add/Edit Tab</p></figcaption></figure>

Here is where you will enter a unique name to identify your contest. This will be used to generate the system id which will identify the contest within your short code or within Elementor.

## Configure Contest Details

Lets go through the process of configuring all the fine details besides the name. The thought process should similar when creating any contest. Let's begin.

### Basic Config

While still on the 'Add/Edit' tab, under the [Add/Edit Tab](/technical-documentation/general-knowledge-base/index/contest-category-menu/add-edit-tab.md#update-other-details-for-contest-category) section you will find various settings related to the basic functionality of the contest. You will choose the type of contest and how/when it will appear to users.

Continuing on to the next section, [Add/Edit Tab](/technical-documentation/general-knowledge-base/index/contest-category-menu/add-edit-tab.md#rules-and-prizes), you will be able to write this contest's custom description for the rules and prizes.

{% hint style="info" %}
**By golly**! There are *other settings* under *other sections* here! An astute observation Watson! :cricket:Check out our awesome [Addons](/fundamentals/addons.md) and find out why, or better yet look behind the curtains in the [index entry](/technical-documentation/general-knowledge-base/index/contest-category-menu/add-edit-tab.md#addon-settings)! :mag:
{% endhint %}

### Color Settings

Unleash your creativity and give your contest a personal touch by visiting the [Color Settings Tab](/technical-documentation/general-knowledge-base/index/contest-category-menu/color-settings-tab.md). From Black and Yellow to Red, White, and Blue, the possibilities are endless. Make your contest stand out with a unique skin that represents you!

### Layout Settings

Make your contest stand out even more by customizing the layout to your liking in the [Layout Settings Tab](/technical-documentation/general-knowledge-base/index/contest-category-menu/layout-settings-tab.md). From simple and sleek to bold and eye-catching, the options are endless. Give your contest the perfect finishing touch by tailoring the layout to suit your style.

## Finishing Up

Now that you have saved your settings and configured all the finer details, you are almost done. You can now see you contest in the [Contest Category Tab](/technical-documentation/general-knowledge-base/index/contest-category-menu/contest-category-tab.md). All that's left is to display your contest! Head to the next page in this tutorial.