Create a new standalone topic

You can create a new topic outside of a map if you want to start writing immediately. You can add the topic to a map later.

Before you begin

Note: Since the topic is not in a map, there is no context map. Keys will not display properly, and you cannot add conrefs. If you want to add these, add the topic to a map or create the topic while in Map Editor.

About this task

To create a new topic without a map:

Procedure

  1. Click Main Menu icon, and select New Object > New Topic.
    The New Topic dialog appears.
  2. Enter a title for your topic.
  3. Optional: Select a different language from the dropdown list.
  4. Click Next.
  5. Choose a template from the following:
    Table 1. Template types

    Template

    Usage

    Concept

    Use this when explaining core ideas and conceptual information

    Reference

    Use this to provide related information to quickly look up

    Task

    Use this for procedures that requires step-by-step instructions

    Troubleshooting

    Use this to provide step-by-step instructions for solutions to common problems
  6. Click Next.
  7. Select a product or library.
    You can use the Search to find one.
  8. Click Next.
  9. Select a branch.
  10. Click Create.

Results

The new topic opens in Topic Editor and is checked out to you for editing.