path: root/doc/development/documentation/styleguide.md

---
description: 'Writing styles, markup, formatting, and other standards for GitLab Documentation.'
---

# Documentation Style Guide

This document defines the standards for GitLab's documentation content and files.

For broader information about the documentation, see the [Documentation guidelines](index.md).

For programmatic help adhering to the guidelines, see [Testing](index.md#testing).

See the GitLab handbook for further [writing style guidelines](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/communication/#writing-style-guidelines)
that apply to all GitLab content, not just documentation.

## Documentation is the single source of truth (SSOT)

### Why a single source of truth

The documentation of GitLab products and features is the SSOT for all information related to implementation, usage, and troubleshooting. It evolves continuously, in keeping with new products and features, and with improvements for clarity, accuracy, and completeness.

This policy prevents information silos, making it easier to find information about GitLab products.

It also informs decisions about the kinds of content we include in our documentation.

### All information

Include problem-solving actions that may address rare cases or be considered 'risky', so long as proper context is provided in the form of fully detailed warnings and caveats. This kind of content should be included as it could be helpful to others and, when properly explained, its benefits outweigh the risks. If you think you have found an exception to this rule, contact the Technical Writing team.

We will add all troubleshooting information to the documentation, no matter how unlikely a user is to encounter a situation.
For the [Troubleshooting sections](#troubleshooting), people in GitLab Support can merge additions themselves.

### All media types

Include any media types/sources if the content is relevant to readers. You can freely include or link presentations, diagrams, videos, and so on; no matter who it was originally composed for, if it is helpful to any of our audiences, we can include it.

- If you use an image that has a separate source file (for example, a vector or diagram format), link the image to the source file so that it may be reused or updated by anyone.
- Do not copy and paste content from other sources unless it is a limited quotation with the source cited. Typically it is better to either rephrase relevant information in your own words or link out to the other source.

### No special types

In the software industry, it is a best practice to organize documentation in different types. For example, [Divio recommends](https://www.divio.com/blog/documentation/):

1. Tutorials
1. How-to guides
1. Explanation
1. Reference (for example, a glossary)

At GitLab, we have so many product changes in our monthly releases that we can't afford to continuously update multiple types of information.
If we have multiple types, the information will become outdated. Therefore, we have a [single template](structure.md) for documentation.

We currently do not distinguish specific document types, although we are open to reconsidering this policy
once the documentation has reached a future stage of maturity and quality. If you are reading this, then despite our
continuous improvement efforts, that point hasn't been reached.

### Link instead of summarize

There is a temptation to summarize the information on another page.
This will cause the information to live in two places.
Instead, link to the SSOT and explain why it is important to consume the information.

### Organize by topic, not by type

Beyond top-level audience-type folders (for example, `administration`), we organize content by topic, not by type, so it can be located as easily as possible within the single-source-of-truth (SSOT) section for the subject matter.

For example, do not create groupings of similar media types. For example:

- Glossaries.
- FAQs.
- Sets of all articles or videos.

Such grouping of content by type makes
it difficult to browse for the information you need and difficult to maintain up-to-date content.
Instead, organize content by its subject (for example, everything related to CI goes together)
and cross-link between any related content.

### Docs-first methodology

We employ a **docs-first methodology** to help ensure the docs remain a complete and trusted resource, and to make communicating about the use of GitLab more efficient.

- If the answer to a question exists in documentation, share the link to the docs instead of rephrasing the information.
- When you encounter new information not available in GitLab’s documentation (for example, when working on a support case or testing a feature), your first step should be to create a merge request (MR) to add this information to the docs. You can then share the MR in order to communicate this information.

New information that would be useful toward the future usage or troubleshooting of GitLab should not be written directly in a forum or other messaging system, but added to a docs MR and then referenced, as described above. Note that among any other doc changes, you can either:

- Add a [Troubleshooting section](#troubleshooting) to a doc if none exists.
- Un-comment and use the placeholder Troubleshooting section included as part of our [doc template](structure.md#template-for-new-docs), if present.

The more we reflexively add useful information to the docs, the more (and more successfully) the docs will be used to efficiently accomplish tasks and solve problems.

If you have questions when considering, authoring, or editing docs, ask the Technical Writing team on Slack in `#docs` or in GitLab by mentioning the writer for the applicable [DevOps stage](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/product/product-categories/#devops-stages). Otherwise, forge ahead with your best effort. It does not need to be perfect; the team is happy to review and improve upon your content. Please review the [Documentation guidelines](index.md) before you begin your first documentation MR.

Having a knowledge base in any form that is separate from the documentation would be against the docs-first methodology because the content would overlap with the documentation.

## Markdown

All GitLab documentation is written using [Markdown](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Markdown).

The [documentation website](https://docs.gitlab.com) uses GitLab Kramdown as its Markdown rendering engine. For a complete Kramdown reference, see the [GitLab Markdown Kramdown Guide](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/markdown-guide/).

The [`gitlab-kramdown`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab_kramdown)
Ruby gem will support all [GFM markup](../../user/markdown.md) in the future. That is,
all markup supported for display in the GitLab application itself. For now,
use regular Markdown markup, following the rules in the linked style guide.

Note that Kramdown-specific markup (for example, `{:.class}`) will not render properly on GitLab instances under [`/help`](index.md#gitlab-help).

### HTML in Markdown

Hard-coded HTML is valid, although it's discouraged from being used while we have `/help`.
HTML is permitted as long as:

- There's no equivalent markup in Markdown.
- Advanced tables are necessary.
- Special styling is required.
- Reviewed and approved by a technical writer.

### Markdown Rules

GitLab ensures that the Markdown used across all documentation is consistent, as
well as easy to review and maintain, by [testing documentation changes](index.md#testing) with
[markdownlint](index.md#markdownlint). This lint test fails when any document has an issue
with Markdown formatting that may cause the page to render incorrectly within GitLab.
It will also fail when a document is using non-standard Markdown (which may render
correctly, but is not the current standard for GitLab documentation).

#### Markdown rule `MD044/proper-names` (capitalization)

A rule that could cause confusion is `MD044/proper-names`, as it might not be immediately
clear what caused markdownlint to fail, or how to correct the failure. This rule
checks a list of known words, listed in the `.markdownlint.json` file in each project,
to verify proper use of capitalization and backticks. Words in backticks will
be ignored by markdownlint.

In general, product names should follow the exact capitalization of the official names
of the products, protocols, and so on.
See [`.markdownlint.json`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/.markdownlint.json)
for the words tested for proper capitalization in GitLab documentation.

Some examples fail if incorrect capitalization is used:

- MinIO (needs capital `IO`)
- NGINX (needs all capitals)
- runit (needs lowercase `r`)

Additionally, commands, parameters, values, filenames, and so on must be included in backticks.
For example:

- "Change the `needs` keyword in your `.gitlab.yml`..."
  - `needs` is a parameter, and `.gitlab.yml` is a file, so both need backticks. Additionally,
    `.gitlab.yml` will fail markdownlint without backticks as it does not have capital G or L.
- "Run `git clone` to clone a Git repository..."
  - `git clone` is a command, so it must be lowercase, while Git is the product, so
    it must have a capital G.

## Structure

Because we want documentation to be a SSOT, we should [organize by topic, not by type](#organize-by-topic-not-by-type).

### Folder structure overview

The documentation is separated by top-level audience folders [`user`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/tree/master/doc/user),
[`administration`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/tree/master/doc/administration), and [`development`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/tree/master/doc/development) (contributing) folders.

Beyond that, we primarily follow the structure of the GitLab user interface or API.

Our goal is to have a clear hierarchical structure with meaningful URLs
like `docs.gitlab.com/user/project/merge_requests/`. With this pattern,
you can immediately tell that you are navigating to user-related documentation
about Project features; specifically about Merge Requests. Our site's paths match
those of our repository, so the clear structure also makes documentation easier to update.

The table below shows what kind of documentation goes where.

| Directory             | What belongs here      |
|:----------------------|:---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| `doc/user/`           | User related documentation. Anything that can be done within the GitLab UI goes here, including usage of the `/admin` interface. |
| `doc/administration/` | Documentation that requires the user to have access to the server where GitLab is installed. The admin settings that can be accessed via GitLab's interface exist under `doc/user/admin_area/`. |
| `doc/api/`            | API related documentation. |
| `doc/development/`    | Documentation related to the development of GitLab, whether contributing code or docs. Related process and style guides should go here. |
| `doc/legal/`          | Legal documents about contributing to GitLab. |
| `doc/install/`        | Contains instructions for installing GitLab. |
| `doc/update/`         | Contains instructions for updating GitLab. |
| `doc/topics/`         | Indexes per topic (`doc/topics/topic-name/index.md`): all resources for that topic. |

### Work with directories and files

1. When you create a new directory, always start with an `index.md` file.
   Do not use another file name and **do not** create `README.md` files.
1. **Do not** use special characters and spaces, or capital letters in file names,
   directory names, branch names, and anything that generates a path.
1. When creating a new document and it has more than one word in its name,
   make sure to use underscores instead of spaces or dashes (`-`). For example,
   a proper naming would be `import_projects_from_github.md`. The same rule
   applies to images.
1. For image files, do not exceed 100KB.
1. Do not upload video files to the product repositories.
   [Link or embed videos](#videos) instead.
1. There are four main directories, `user`, `administration`, `api` and `development`.
1. The `doc/user/` directory has five main subdirectories: `project/`, `group/`,
   `profile/`, `dashboard/` and `admin_area/`.
   1. `doc/user/project/` should contain all project related documentation.
   1. `doc/user/group/` should contain all group related documentation.
   1. `doc/user/profile/` should contain all profile related documentation.
      Every page you would navigate under `/profile` should have its own document,
      for example, `account.md`, `applications.md`, or `emails.md`.
   1. `doc/user/dashboard/` should contain all dashboard related documentation.
   1. `doc/user/admin_area/` should contain all admin related documentation
      describing what can be achieved by accessing GitLab's admin interface
      (_not to be confused with `doc/administration` where server access is
      required_).
      1. Every category under `/admin/application_settings/` should have its
         own document located at `doc/user/admin_area/settings/`. For example,
         the **Visibility and Access Controls** category should have a document
         located at `doc/user/admin_area/settings/visibility_and_access_controls.md`.
1. The `doc/topics/` directory holds topic-related technical content. Create
   `doc/topics/topic-name/subtopic-name/index.md` when subtopics become necessary.
   General user- and admin- related documentation, should be placed accordingly.
1. The directories `/workflow/`, `/university/`, and `/articles/` have
   been **deprecated** and the majority their docs have been moved to their correct location
   in small iterations.

If you are unsure where a document or a content addition should live, this should
not stop you from authoring and contributing. You can use your best judgment and
then ask the reviewer of your MR to confirm your decision, and/or ask a technical writer
at any stage in the process. The technical writing team will review all documentation
changes, regardless, and can move content if there is a better place for it.

### Avoid duplication

Do not include the same information in multiple places. [Link to a SSOT instead.](#link-instead-of-summarize)

### References across documents

- Give each folder an index.md page that introduces the topic, introduces the pages within, and links to the pages within (including to the index pages of any next-level subpaths).
- To ensure discoverability, ensure each new or renamed doc is linked from its higher-level index page and other related pages.
- When making reference to other GitLab products and features, link to their respective docs, at least on first mention.
- When making reference to third-party products or technologies, link out to their external sites, documentation, and resources.

### Structure within documents

- Include any and all applicable subsections as described on the [structure and template](structure.md) page.
- Structure content in alphabetical order in tables, lists, and so on, unless there is
  a logical reason not to (for example, when mirroring the UI or an otherwise ordered sequence).

## Language

GitLab documentation should be clear and easy to understand.

- Be clear, concise, and stick to the goal of the documentation.
- Write in US English with US grammar. (Tested in [`British.yml`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/.vale/gitlab/British.yml).)
- Use inclusive language.

### Point of view

In most cases, it’s appropriate to use the second-person (you, yours) point of view,
because it’s friendly and easy to understand.
(Tested in [`FirstPerson.yml`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/.vale/gitlab/FirstPerson.yml).)

<!-- How do we harmonize the second person in Pajamas with our first person plural in our doc guide? -->

### Capitalization

- Capitalize "G" and "L" in GitLab.
- Use sentence case for:
  - Titles.
  - Labels.
  - Menu items.
  - Buttons.
  - Headings. Don't capitalize other words in the title, unless
    it refers to a product feature. For example:
    - Capitalizing "issues" is acceptable in
    `## What you can do with GitLab Issues`, but not in `## Closing multiple issues`.
- Use title case when referring to:
  - [GitLab Features](https://about.gitlab.com/features/). For example, Issue Board,
    Geo, and Runner.
  - GitLab [product tiers](https://about.gitlab.com/pricing/). For example, GitLab Core
    and GitLab Ultimate. (Tested in [`BadgeCapitalization.yml`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/.vale/gitlab/BadgeCapitalization.yml).)
  - Third-party products. For example, Prometheus, Kubernetes, and Git.
  - Methods or methodologies. For example, Continuous Integration, Continuous
    Deployment, Scrum, and Agile.
    (Tested in [`.markdownlint.json`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/.markdownlint.json).)

    NOTE: **Note:**
    Some features are also objects. For example, "GitLab's Merge Requests support X" and
    "Create a new merge request for Z."

### Language to avoid

When creating documentation, limit or avoid the use of the following verb
tenses, words, and phrases:

- Avoid jargon.
- Avoid uncommon words.
- Don't write in the first person singular.
  (Tested in [`FirstPerson.yml`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/.vale/gitlab/FirstPerson.yml).)
  - Instead of "I" or "me," use "we," "you," "us," or "one."
  - When possible, stay user focused by writing in the second person ("you" or
    the imperative).
- Don't overuse "that". In many cases, you can remove "that" from a sentence
  and improve readability.
- Avoid use of the future tense:
  - Instead of "after you execute this command, GitLab will display the
    result", use "after you execute this command, GitLab displays the result".
  - Only use the future tense to convey when the action or result will actually
    occur at a future time.
- Don't use slashes to clump different words together or as a replacement for
  the word "or":
  - Instead of "and/or," consider using "or," or use another sensible
    construction.
  - Other examples include "clone/fetch," author/assignee," and
    "namespace/repository name." Break apart any such instances in an
    appropriate way.
  - Exceptions to this rule include commonly accepted technical terms, such as
    CI/CD and TCP/IP.
- <!-- vale gitlab.LatinTerms = NO -->
  We discourage use of Latin abbreviations, such as "e.g.," "i.e.," or "etc.,"
  as even native users of English might misunderstand them.
  (Tested in [`LatinTerms.yml`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/.vale/gitlab/LatinTerms.yml).)
  - Instead of "i.e.," use "that is."
  - Instead of "e.g.," use "for example," "such as," "for instance," or "like."
  - Instead of "etc.," either use "and so on" or consider editing it out, since
    it can be vague.
    <!-- vale gitlab.rulename = NO -->
- Avoid using the word *currently* when talking about the product or its
  features. The documentation describes the product as it is, and not as it
  will be at some indeterminate point in the future.
- Avoid the using the word *scalability* with increasing GitLab's performance
  for additional users. Using the words *scale* or *scaling* in other cases is
  acceptable, but references to increasing GitLab's performance for additional
  users should direct readers to the GitLab
  [reference architectures](../../administration/reference_architectures/index.md)
  page.
- Avoid all forms of the phrases *high availability* and *HA*, and instead
  direct readers to the GitLab [reference architectures](../../administration/reference_architectures/index.md)
  for information about configuring GitLab to have the performance needed for
  additional users over time.
- Don't use profanity or obscenities. Doing so may negatively affect other
  users and contributors, which is contrary to GitLab's value of
  [Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/values/#diversity-inclusion).
- Avoid the use of [racially-insensitive terminology or phrases](https://www.marketplace.org/2020/06/17/tech-companies-update-language-to-avoid-offensive-terms/). For example:
  - Use *primary* and *secondary* for database and server relationships.
  - Use *allowlist* and *denylist* to describe access control lists.

### Word usage clarifications

- Don't use "may" and "might" interchangeably:
  - Use "might" to indicate the probability of something occurring. "If you
    skip this step, the import process might fail."
  - Use "may" to indicate giving permission for someone to do something, or
    consider using "can" instead. "You may select either option on this
    screen." Or, "You can select either option on this screen."

### Contractions

- Use common contractions when it helps create a friendly and informal tone, especially in tutorials, instructional documentation, and [UIs](https://design.gitlab.com/content/punctuation/#contractions). (Tested in [`Contractions.yml`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/.vale/gitlab/Contractions.yml).)

  | Do       | Don't     |
  |----------|-----------|
  | it's     | it is     |
  | can't    | cannot    |
  | wouldn't | would not |
  | you're   | you are   |
  | you've   | you have  |
  | haven't  | have not  |
  | don't    | do not    |
  | we're    | we are    |
  | that's   | that is   |
  | won't    | will not  |

- Avoid less common contractions:

  | Do           | Don't       |
  |--------------|-------------|
  | he would     | he'd        |
  | it will      | it'll       |
  | should have  | should've   |
  | there would  | there'd     |

- Do not use contractions with a proper noun and a verb. For example:

  | Do                   | Don't               |
  |----------------------|---------------------|
  | GitLab is creating X | GitLab's creating X |

- Do not use contractions when you need to emphasize a negative. For example:

  | Do                          | Don't                      |
  |-----------------------------|----------------------------|
  | Do **not** install X with Y | **Don't** install X with Y |

- Do not use contractions in reference documentation. For example:

  | Do                                       | Don't                      |
  |------------------------------------------|----------------------------|
  | Do **not** set a limit greater than 1000 | **Don't** set a limit greater than 1000 |
  | For `parameter1`, the default is 10      | For `parameter1`, the default's 10     |

- Avoid contractions in error messages. Examples:

  | Do                                       | Don't                      |
  |------------------------------------------|----------------------------|
  | Requests to localhost are not allowed    | Requests to localhost aren't allowed |
  | Specified URL cannot be used             | Specified URL can't be used          |

<!-- vale on -->

## Text

- [Write in Markdown](#markdown).
- Splitting long lines (preferably up to 100 characters) can make it easier to provide feedback on small chunks of text.
- Insert an empty line for new paragraphs.
- Insert an empty line between different markups (for example, after every paragraph, header, list, and so on). Example:

  ```markdown
  ## Header

  Paragraph.

  - List item 1
  - List item 2
  ```

### Emphasis

- Use double asterisks (`**`) to mark a word or text in bold (`**bold**`).
- Use underscore (`_`) for text in italics (`_italic_`).
- Use greater than (`>`) for blockquotes.

### Punctuation

Check the general punctuation rules for the GitLab documentation on the table below.
Check specific punctuation rules for [lists](#lists) below.

| Rule | Example |
| ---- | ------- |
| Always end full sentences with a period. | _For a complete overview, read through this document._|
| Always add a space after a period when beginning a new sentence. | _For a complete overview, check this doc. For other references, check out this guide._ |
| Do not use double spaces. (Tested in [`SentenceSpacing.yml`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/.vale/gitlab/SentenceSpacing.yml).) | --- |
| Do not use tabs for indentation. Use spaces instead. You can configure your code editor to output spaces instead of tabs when pressing the tab key. | --- |
| Use serial commas ("Oxford commas") before the final 'and/or' in a list. (Tested in [`OxfordComma.yml`](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/.vale/gitlab/OxfordComma.yml).) | _You can create new issues, merge requests, and milestones._ |
| Always add a space before and after dashes when using it in a sentence (for replacing a comma, for example). | _You should try this - or not._ |
| Always use lowercase after a colon. | _Related Issues: a way to create a relationship between issues._ |

### Placeholder text

Often in examples, a writer will provide a command or configuration that is complete apart from
a value specific to the reader.

In these cases, use [`<` and `>`](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usage_message#Pattern) to call out
where a reader must replace text with their own value.

For example:

```shell
cp <your_source_directory> <your_destination_directory>
```

## Lists

- Always start list items with a capital letter, unless they are parameters or commands
  that are in backticks, or similar.
- Always leave a blank line before and after a list.
- Begin a line with spaces (not tabs) to denote a [nested sub-item](#nesting-inside-a-list-item).

### Ordered vs. unordered lists

Only use ordered lists when their items describe a sequence of steps to follow.

Do:

```markdown
These are the steps to do something:

1. First, do the first step.
1. Then, do the next step.
1. Finally, do the last step.
```

Don't:

```markdown
This is a list of available features:

1. Feature 1
1. Feature 2
1. Feature 3
```

### Markup

- Use dashes (`-`) for unordered lists instead of asterisks (`*`).
- Prefix `1.` to every item in an ordered list.
  When rendered, the list items will appear with sequential numbering automatically.

### Punctuation

- Do not add commas (`,`) or semicolons (`;`) to the end of list items.
- Only add periods to the end of a list item if the item consists of a complete sentence.
  The [definition of full sentence](https://www2.le.ac.uk/offices/ld/all-resources/writing/grammar/grammar-guides/sentence)
  is: _"a complete sentence always contains a verb, expresses a complete idea, and makes sense standing alone"_.
- Be consistent throughout the list: if the majority of the items do not end in a period,
  do not end any of the items in a period, even if they consist of a complete sentence.
  The opposite is also valid: if the majority of the items end with a period, end
  all with a period.
- Separate list items from explanatory text with a colon (`:`). For example:

  ```markdown
  The list is as follows:

  - First item: this explains the first item.
  - Second item: this explains the second item.
  ```

**Examples:**

Do:

- First list item
- Second list item
- Third list item

Don't:

- First list item
- Second list item
- Third list item.

Do:

- Let's say this is a complete sentence.
- Let's say this is also a complete sentence.
- Not a complete sentence.

Don't (vary use of periods; majority rules):

- Let's say this is a complete sentence.
- Let's say this is also a complete sentence.
- Not a complete sentence

### Nesting inside a list item

It is possible to nest items under a list item, so that they render with the same indentation
as the list item. This can be done with:

- [Code blocks](#code-blocks)
- [Blockquotes](#blockquotes)
- [Alert boxes](#alert-boxes)
- [Images](#images)

Items nested in lists should always align with the first character of the list item.
In unordered lists (using `-`), this means two spaces for each level of indentation:

````markdown
- Unordered list item 1

  A line nested using 2 spaces to align with the `U` above.

- Unordered list item 2

  > A quote block that will nest
  > inside list item 2.

- Unordered list item 3

  ```plaintext
  a codeblock that will next inside list item 3
  ```

- Unordered list item 4

  ![an image that will nest inside list item 4](image.png)
````

For ordered lists, use three spaces for each level of indentation:

````markdown
1. Ordered list item 1

   A line nested using 3 spaces to align with the `O` above.

1. Ordered list item 2

   > A quote block that will nest
   > inside list item 2.

1. Ordered list item 3

   ```plaintext
   a codeblock that will next inside list item 3
   ```

1. Ordered list item 4

   ![an image that will nest inside list item 4](image.png)
````

You can nest full lists inside other lists using the same rules as above. If you wish
to mix types, that is also possible, as long as you don't mix items at the same level:

```markdown
1. Ordered list item one.
1. Ordered list item two.
   - Nested unordered list item one.
   - Nested unordered list item two.
1. Ordered list item three.

- Unordered list item one.
- Unordered list item two.
  1. Nested ordered list item one.
  1. Nested ordered list item two.
- Unordered list item three.
```

## Tables

Tables should be used to describe complex information in a straightforward
manner. Note that in many cases, an unordered list is sufficient to describe a
list of items with a single, simple description per item. But, if you have data
that is best described by a matrix, tables are the best choice for use.

### Creation guidelines

Due to accessibility and scannability requirements, tables should not have any
empty cells. If there is no otherwise meaningful value for a cell, consider entering
*N/A* (for 'not applicable') or *none*.

To help tables be easier to maintain, consider adding additional spaces to the
column widths to make them consistent. For example:

```markdown
| App name | Description          | Requirements   |
|:---------|:---------------------|:---------------|
| App 1    | Description text 1.  | Requirements 1 |
| App 2    | Description text 2.  | None           |
```

Consider installing a plugin or extension in your editor for formatting tables:

- [Markdown Table Prettifier](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=darkriszty.markdown-table-prettify) for Visual Studio Code
- [Markdown Table Formatter](https://packagecontrol.io/packages/Markdown%20Table%20Formatter) for Sublime Text
- [Markdown Table Formatter](https://atom.io/packages/markdown-table-formatter) for Atom

### Feature tables

When creating tables of lists of features (such as whether or not features are
available to certain roles on the [Permissions](../../user/permissions.md#project-members-permissions)
page), use the following phrases (based on the SVG icons):

- *No*: **{dotted-circle}** No
- *Yes*: **{check-circle}** Yes

## Quotes

Valid for Markdown content only, not for front matter entries:

- Standard quotes: double quotes (`"`). Example: "This is wrapped in double quotes".
- Quote within a quote: double quotes (`"`) wrap single quotes (`'`). Example: "I am 'quoting' something within a quote".

For other punctuation rules, please refer to the
[GitLab UX guide](https://design.gitlab.com/content/punctuation/).

## Headings

- Add **only one H1** in each document, by adding `#` at the beginning of
  it (when using Markdown). The `h1` will be the document `<title>`.
- Start with an `h2` (`##`), and respect the order `h2` > `h3` > `h4` > `h5` > `h6`.
  Never skip the hierarchy level, such as `h2` > `h4`
- Avoid putting numbers in headings. Numbers shift, hence documentation anchor
  links shift too, which eventually leads to dead links. If you think it is
  compelling to add numbers in headings, make sure to at least discuss it with
  someone in the Merge Request.
- [Avoid using symbols and special characters](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-docs/-/issues/84)
  in headers. Whenever possible, they should be plain and short text.
- Avoid adding things that show ephemeral statuses. For example, if a feature is
  considered beta or experimental, put this information in a note, not in the heading.
- When introducing a new document, be careful for the headings to be
  grammatically and syntactically correct. Mention an [assigned technical writer (TW)](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/product/product-categories/)
  for review.
  This is to ensure that no document with wrong heading is going
  live without an audit, thus preventing dead links and redirection issues when
  corrected.
- Leave exactly one blank line before and after a heading.
- Do not use links in headings.
- Add the corresponding [product badge](#product-badges) according to the tier the feature belongs.
- Our docs site search engine prioritizes words used in headings and subheadings.
  Make you subheading titles clear, descriptive, and complete to help users find the
  right example, as shown in the section on [heading titles](#heading-titles).
- See [Capitalization](#capitalization) for guidelines on capitalizing headings.

### Heading titles

Keep heading titles clear and direct. Make every word count. To accommodate search engine optimization (SEO), use the imperative, where possible.

| Do   | Don't   |
|:-----|:--------|
| Configure GDK | Configuring GDK |
| GitLab Release and Maintenance Policy | This section covers GitLab's Release and Maintenance Policy |
| Backport to older releases | Backporting to older releases |
| GitLab Pages examples | Examples |

For guidelines on capitalizing headings, see the section on [capitalization](#capitalization).

NOTE: **Note:**
If you change an existing title, be careful. Any such changes may affect not only [links](#anchor-links)
within the page, but may also affect links from GitLab itself, as well as external links, to GitLab documentation.

### Anchor links

Headings generate anchor links automatically when rendered. `## This is an example`
generates the anchor `#this-is-an-example`.

Keep in mind that the GitLab UI links to a large number of docs and respective
anchor links to take the user to the right spot. Therefore, when you change a
heading, search `doc/*`, `app/views/*`, and `ee/app/views/*` for the old anchor
to make sure you're not breaking an anchor linked from other docs nor from the
GitLab UI. If you find the old anchor, make sure to replace it with the new one.

Important:

- Avoid crosslinking docs to headings unless you need to link to a specific section
  of the document. This will avoid breaking anchors in the future in case the heading
  is changed.
- If possible, avoid changing headings since they're not only linked internally.
  There are various links to GitLab documentation on the internet, such as tutorials,
  presentations, StackOverflow posts, and other sources.
- Do not link to `h1` headings.

Note that, with Kramdown, it is possible to add a custom ID to an HTML element
with Markdown markup, but they **do not** work in GitLab's `/help`. Therefore,
do not use this option until further notice.

## Links

Links are important in GitLab documentation. They allow you to [link instead of summarizing](#link-instead-of-summarize)
to help preserve an [SSoT](#why-a-single-source-of-truth) within GitLab documentation.

We include guidance for links in the following categories:

- How to set up [anchor links](#anchor-links) for headings.
- How to set up [criteria](#basic-link-criteria) for configuring a link.
- What to set up when [linking to a `help`](../documentation/index.md#linking-to-help) page.
- How to set up [links to internal documentation](#links-to-internal-documentation) for cross-references.
- How to set up [links to external documentation](#links-to-external-documentation) for authoritative sources.
- When to use [links requiring permissions](#links-requiring-permissions).
- How to set up a [link to a video](#link-to-video).
- How to [include links with version text](#text-for-documentation-requiring-version-text).
- How to [link to specific lines of code](#link-to-specific-lines-of-code)

### Basic link criteria

- Use inline link Markdown markup `[Text](https://example.com)`.
  It's easier to read, review, and maintain. **Do not** use `[Text][identifier]`.

- Use [meaningful anchor texts](https://www.futurehosting.com/blog/links-should-have-meaningful-anchor-text-heres-why/).
  For example, instead of writing something like `Read more about GitLab Issue Boards [here](LINK)`,
  write `Read more about [GitLab Issue Boards](LINK)`.

### Links to internal documentation

NOTE: **Note:**
_Internal_ refers to documentation in the same project. When linking to documentation in
separate projects (for example, linking to Omnibus docs from GitLab docs), you must use absolute
URLs.

Do not use absolute URLs like `https://docs.gitlab.com/ee/index.html` to crosslink
to other docs within the same project. Use relative links to the file, like `../index.md`. (These are converted to HTML when the site is rendered.)

Relative linking enables crosslinks to work:

- in Review Apps, local previews, and `/help`.
- when working on the docs locally, so you can verify that they work as early as possible in the process.
- within the GitLab UI when browsing doc files in their respective repositories. For example, the links displayed at `https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/doc/README.md`.

To link to internal documentation:

- Use relative links to Markdown files in the same repository.
- Do not use absolute URLs or URLs from `docs.gitlab.com`.
- Use `../` to navigate to higher-level directories.
- Do not link relative to root. For example, `/ee/user/gitlab_com/index.md`.

  Don't:

  - `https://docs.gitlab.com/ee/administration/geo/replication/troubleshooting.html`
  - `/ee/administration/geo/replication/troubleshooting.md`

  Do: `../../geo/replication/troubleshooting.md`

- Always add the file name `file.md` at the end of the link with the `.md` extension, not `.html`.

  Don't:

  - `../../merge_requests/`
  - `../../issues/tags.html`
  - `../../issues/tags.html#stages`

  Do:

  - `../../merge_requests/index.md`
  - `../../issues/tags.md`
  - `../../issues/tags.md#stages`

NOTE: **Note:**
Using the Markdown extension is necessary for the [`/help`](index.md#gitlab-help) section of GitLab.

### Links to external documentation

When describing interactions with external software, it's often helpful to include links to external
documentation. When possible, make sure that you are linking to an **authoritative** source.
For example, if you're describing a feature in Microsoft's Active Directory, include a link to official Microsoft documentation.

### Links requiring permissions

Don't link directly to:

- [Confidential issues](../../user/project/issues/confidential_issues.md).
- Project features that require [special permissions](../../user/permissions.md) to view.

These will fail for:

- Those without sufficient permissions.
- Automated link checkers.

Instead:

- To reduce confusion, mention in the text that the information is either:
  - Contained in a confidential issue.
  - Requires special permission to a project to view.
- Provide a link in back ticks (`` ` ``) so that those with access to the issue can easily navigate to it.

Example:

```markdown
For more information, see the [confidential issue](../../user/project/issues/confidential_issues.md) `https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/<issue_number>`.
```

### Link to specific lines of code

When linking to specific lines within a file, link to a commit instead of to the branch.
Lines of code change through time, therefore, linking to a line by using the commit link
ensures the user lands on the line you're referring to. The **Permalink** button, which is
available when viewing a file within a project, makes it easy to generate a link to the
most recent commit of the given file.

- **Do:** `[link to line 3](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/11f17c56d8b7f0b752562d78a4298a3a95b5ce66/.gitlab/issue_templates/Feature%20proposal.md#L3)`
- **Don't:** `[link to line 3](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/.gitlab/issue_templates/Feature%20proposal.md#L3).`

If that linked expression is no longer in that line of the file due to further commits, you
can still search the file for that query. In this case, update the document to ensure it
links to the most recent version of the file.

## Navigation

To indicate the steps of navigation through the UI:

- Use the exact word as shown in the UI, including any capital letters as-is.
- Use bold text for navigation items and the char "greater than" (`>`) as separator
  (for example, `Navigate to your project's **Settings > CI/CD**` ).
- If there are any expandable menus, make sure to mention that the user
  needs to expand the tab to find the settings you're referring to (for example, `Navigate to your project's **Settings > CI/CD** and expand **General pipelines**`).

## Images

Images, including screenshots, can help a reader better understand a concept.
However, they can be hard to maintain, and should be used sparingly.

Before including an image in the documentation, ensure it provides value to the reader.

### Capture the image

Use images to help the reader understand where they are in a process, or how they need to
interact with the application.

When you take screenshots:

- *Capture the most relevant area of the page.* Don't include unnecessary white
  space or areas of the page that don't help illustrate your point. Also, don't
  include the entire page if you don't have to, but also ensure the image
  contains enough information to allow the user to determine where things are.
- *Be consistent.* Find a browser window size that works for you that also
  displays all areas of the product, including the left navigation (usually >
  1200px wide). For consistency, use this browser window size for your
  screenshots by installing a browser extension for setting a window to a
  specific size (for example,
  [Window Resizer](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/window-resizer/kkelicaakdanhinjdeammmilcgefonfh/related?hl=en)
  for Google Chrome).

### Save the image

- Save the image with a lowercase file name that is descriptive of the feature
  or concept in the image. If the image is of the GitLab interface, append the
  GitLab version to the file name, based on the following format:
  `image_name_vX_Y.png`. For example, for a screenshot taken from the pipelines
  page of GitLab 11.1, a valid name is `pipelines_v11_1.png`. If you're adding an
  illustration that doesn't include parts of the user interface, add the release
  number corresponding to the release the image was added to; for an MR added to
  11.1's milestone, a valid name for an illustration is `devops_diagram_v11_1.png`.
- Place images in a separate directory named `img/` in the same directory where
  the `.md` document that you're working on is located.
- Consider using PNG images instead of JPEG.
- [Compress all PNG images](#compress-images).
- Compress gifs with <https://ezgif.com/optimize> or similar tool.
- Images should be used (only when necessary) to _illustrate_ the description
  of a process, not to _replace_ it.
- Max image size: 100KB (gifs included).
- See also how to link and embed [videos](#videos) to illustrate the docs.

### Add the image link to content

The Markdown code for including an image in a document is:
`![Image description which will be the alt tag](img/document_image_title_vX_Y.png)`

The image description is the alt text for the rendered image on the docs site.
For accessibility and SEO, use [descriptions](https://webaim.org/techniques/alttext/)
that:

- Are accurate, succinct, and unique.
- Don't use *image of …* or *graphic of…* to describe the image.

Also, if a heading immediately follows an image, be sure to add three dashes
(`---`) between the image and the heading.

### Remove image shadow

All images displayed on the [GitLab Docs site](https://docs.gitlab.com) have a box shadow by default.
To remove the box shadow, use the image class `.image-noshadow` applied
directly to an HTML `img` tag:

```html
<img src="path/to/image.jpg" alt="Alt text (required)" class="image-noshadow">
```

### Compress images

You should always compress any new images you add to the documentation. One
known tool is [`pngquant`](https://pngquant.org/), which is cross-platform and
open source. Install it by visiting the official website and following the
instructions for your OS.

GitLab has a [Rake task](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/blob/master/lib/tasks/pngquant.rake)
that you can use to automate the process. In the root directory of your local
copy of `https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab`, run in a terminal:

- Before compressing, if you want, check that all documentation PNG images have
  been compressed:

  ```shell
  bundle exec rake pngquant:lint
  ```

- Compress all documentation PNG images using `pngquant`:

  ```shell
  bundle exec rake pngquant:compress
  ```

The only caveat is that the task runs on all images under `doc/`, not only the
ones you might have included in a merge request. In that case, you can run the
compress task and only commit the images that are relevant to your merge
request.

## Videos

Adding GitLab's existing YouTube video tutorials to the documentation is
highly encouraged, unless the video is outdated. Videos should not
replace documentation, but complement or illustrate it. If content in a video is
fundamental to a feature and its key use cases, but this is not adequately covered in the documentation,
add this detail to the documentation text or create an issue to review the video and do so.

Do not upload videos to the product repositories. [Link](#link-to-video) or [embed](#embed-videos) them instead.

### Link to video

To link out to a video, include a YouTube icon so that readers can
quickly and easily scan the page for videos before reading:

```markdown
<i class="fa fa-youtube-play youtube" aria-hidden="true"></i>
For an overview, see [Video Title](link-to-video).
```

You can link any up-to-date video that is useful to the GitLab user.

### Embed videos

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-docs/-/merge_requests/472) in GitLab 12.1.

The [GitLab Docs site](https://docs.gitlab.com) supports embedded videos.

You can only embed videos from
[GitLab's official YouTube account](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnMGQ8QHMAnVIsI3xJrihhg).
For videos from other sources, [link](#link-to-video) them instead.

In most cases, it is better to [link to video](#link-to-video) instead,
because an embed takes up a lot of space on the page and can be distracting
to readers.

To embed a video, follow the instructions below and make sure
you have your MR reviewed and approved by a technical writer.

1. Copy the code below and paste it into your Markdown file.
   Leave a blank line above and below it. Do NOT edit the code
   (don't remove or add any spaces).
1. On YouTube, visit the video URL you want to display. Copy
   the regular URL from your browser (`https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIDEO-ID`)
   and replace the video title and link in the line under `<div class="video-fallback">`.
1. On YouTube, click **Share**, then **Embed**.
1. Copy the `<iframe>` source (`src`) **URL only**
   (`https://www.youtube.com/embed/VIDEO-ID`),
   and paste it, replacing the content of the `src` field in the
   `iframe` tag.

```html
leave a blank line here
<div class="video-fallback">
  See the video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqL6BMOySIQ">Video title</a>.
</div>
<figure class="video-container">
  <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MqL6BMOySIQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"> </iframe>
</figure>
leave a blank line here
```

This is how it renders on the GitLab Docs site:

<div class="video-fallback">
  See the video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enMumwvLAug">What is GitLab</a>.
</div>
<figure class="video-container">
  <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MqL6BMOySIQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"> </iframe>
</figure>

> Notes:
>
> - The `figure` tag is required for semantic SEO and the `video_container`
class is necessary to make sure the video is responsive and displays
nicely on different mobile devices.
> - The `<div class="video-fallback">` is a fallback necessary for GitLab's
`/help`, as GitLab's Markdown processor does not support iframes. It's hidden on the docs site but will be displayed on GitLab's `/help`.

## Code blocks

- Always wrap code added to a sentence in inline code blocks (`` ` ``).
  For example, `.gitlab-ci.yml`, `git add .`, `CODEOWNERS`, or `only: [master]`.
  File names, commands, entries, and anything that refers to code should be added to code blocks.
  To make things easier for the user, always add a full code block for things that can be
  useful to copy and paste, as they can easily do it with the button on code blocks.
- Add a blank line above and below code blocks.
- When providing a shell command and its output, prefix the shell command with `$` and
  leave a blank line between the command and the output.
- When providing a command without output, don't prefix the shell command with `$`.
- If you need to include triple backticks inside a code block, use four backticks
  for the codeblock fences instead of three.
- For regular fenced code blocks, always use a highlighting class corresponding to the
  language for better readability. Examples:

  ````markdown
  ```ruby
  Ruby code
  ```

  ```javascript
  JavaScript code
  ```

  ```markdown
  [Markdown code example](example.md)
  ```

  ```plaintext
  Code or text for which no specific highlighting class is available.
  ```
  ````

Syntax highlighting is required for fenced code blocks added to the GitLab documentation.
Refer to the table below for the most common language classes, or check the
[complete list](https://github.com/rouge-ruby/rouge/wiki/List-of-supported-languages-and-lexers)
of language classes available.

| Preferred language tags | Language aliases and notes                                                   |
|-------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| `asciidoc`              |                                                                              |
| `dockerfile`            | Alias: `docker`.                                                             |
| `elixir`                |                                                                              |
| `erb`                   |                                                                              |
| `golang`                | Alias: `go`.                                                                 |
| `graphql`               |                                                                              |
| `haml`                  |                                                                              |
| `html`                  |                                                                              |
| `ini`                   | For some simple config files that are not in TOML format.                    |
| `javascript`            | Alias `js`.                                                                  |
| `json`                  |                                                                              |
| `markdown`              | Alias: `md`.                                                                 |
| `mermaid`               |                                                                              |
| `nginx`                 |                                                                              |
| `perl`                  |                                                                              |
| `php`                   |                                                                              |
| `plaintext`             | Examples with no defined language, such as output from shell commands or API calls. If a codeblock has no language, it defaults to `plaintext`. Alias: `text`. |
| `prometheus`            | Prometheus configuration examples.                                           |
| `python`                |                                                                              |
| `ruby`                  | Alias: `rb`.                                                                 |
| `shell`                 | Aliases: `bash` or `sh`.                                                     |
| `sql`                   |                                                                              |
| `toml`                  | Runner configuration examples, and other TOML-formatted configuration files. |
| `typescript`            | Alias: `ts`.                                                                 |
| `xml`                   |                                                                              |
| `yaml`                  | Alias: `yml`.                                                                |

For a complete reference on code blocks, check the [Kramdown guide](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/markdown-guide/#code-blocks).

## GitLab SVG icons

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-docs/-/issues/384) in GitLab 12.7.

You can use icons from the [GitLab SVG library](https://gitlab-org.gitlab.io/gitlab-svgs/) directly
in the documentation.

This way, you can achieve a consistent look when writing about interacting with GitLab UI elements.

Usage examples:

- Icon with default size (16px): `**{icon-name}**`

  Example: `**{tanuki}**` renders as: **{tanuki}**.
- Icon with custom size: `**{icon-name, size}**`

  Available sizes (in px): 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 24, 32, 48, and 72

  Example: `**{tanuki, 24}**` renders as: **{tanuki, 24}**.
- Icon with custom size and class: `**{icon-name, size, class-name}**`.

  You can access any class available to this element in GitLab docs CSS.

  Example with `float-right`, a
  [Bootstrap utility class](https://getbootstrap.com/docs/4.4/utilities/float/):
  `**{tanuki, 32, float-right}**` renders as: **{tanuki, 32, float-right}**

### Use GitLab SVGs to describe UI elements

When using GitLab SVGs to describe screen elements, also include the name or tooltip of the element as text.

For example, for references to the Admin Area:

- Correct: `**{admin}** **Admin Area > Settings**` (**{admin}** **Admin Area > Settings**)
- Incorrect: `**{admin}** **> Settings**` (**{admin}** **> Settings**)

This will ensure that the source Markdown remains readable and should help with accessibility.

The following are examples of source Markdown for menu items with their published output:

```markdown
1. Go to **{home}** **Project overview > Details**
1. Go to **{doc-text}** **Repository > Branches**
1. Go to **{issues}** **Issues > List**
1. Go to **{merge-request}** **Merge Requests**
1. Go to **{rocket}** **CI/CD > Pipelines**
1. Go to **{shield}** **Security & Compliance > Configuration**
1. Go to **{cloud-gear}** **Operations > Metrics**
1. Go to **{package}** **Packages > Container Registry**
1. Go to **{chart}** **Project Analytics > Code Review**
1. Go to **{book}** **Wiki**
1. Go to **{snippet}** **Snippets**
1. Go to **{users}** **Members**
1. Select the **More actions** **{ellipsis_v}** icon  > **Hide stage**
```

1. Go to **{home}** **Project overview > Details**
1. Go to **{doc-text}** **Repository > Branches**
1. Go to **{issues}** **Issues > List**
1. Go to **{merge-request}** **Merge Requests**
1. Go to **{rocket}** **CI/CD > Pipelines**
1. Go to **{shield}** **Security & Compliance > Configuration**
1. Go to **{cloud-gear}** **Operations > Metrics**
1. Go to **{package}** **Packages > Container Registry**
1. Go to **{chart}** **Project Analytics > Code Review**
1. Go to **{book}** **Wiki**
1. Go to **{snippet}** **Snippets**
1. Go to **{users}** **Members**
1. Select the **More actions** **{ellipsis_v}** icon > **Hide stage**

## Alert boxes

Whenever you need to call special attention to particular sentences,
use the following markup for highlighting.

Note that the alert boxes only work for one paragraph only. Multiple paragraphs,
lists, headers and so on, will not render correctly. For multiple lines, use [blockquotes](#blockquotes) instead.

Alert boxes only render on the GitLab Docs site (<https://docs.gitlab.com>).
Within GitLab itself, they will appear as plain Markdown text (like the examples
above the rendered versions, below).

### Note

Notes catch the eye of most readers, and therefore should be used very sparingly.
In most cases, content considered for a note should be included:

- As just another sentence in the previous paragraph or the most-relevant paragraph.
- As its own standalone paragraph.
- As content under a new subheading that introduces the topic, making it more visible/findable.

#### When to use

Use a note when there is a reason that most or all readers who browse the
section should see the content. That is, if missed, it’s likely to cause
major trouble for a minority of users or significant trouble for a majority
of users.

Weigh the costs of distracting users to whom the content is not relevant against
the cost of users missing the content if it were not expressed as a note.

```markdown
NOTE: **Note:**
This is something to note.
```

How it renders on the GitLab Docs site:

NOTE: **Note:**
This is something to note.

### Tip

```markdown
TIP: **Tip:**
This is a tip.
```

How it renders on the GitLab Docs site:

TIP: **Tip:**
This is a tip.

### Caution

```markdown
CAUTION: **Caution:**
This is something to be cautious about.
```

How it renders on the GitLab Docs site:

CAUTION: **Caution:**
This is something to be cautious about.

### Danger

```markdown
DANGER: **Danger:**
This is a breaking change, a bug, or something very important to note.
```

How it renders on the GitLab Docs site:

DANGER: **Danger:**
This is a breaking change, a bug, or something very important to note.

## Blockquotes

For highlighting a text within a blue blockquote, use this format:

```markdown
> This is a blockquote.
```

which renders on the [GitLab Docs site](https://docs.gitlab.com) as:

> This is a blockquote.

If the text spans across multiple lines it's OK to split the line.

For multiple paragraphs, use the symbol `>` before every line:

```markdown
> This is the first paragraph.
>
> This is the second paragraph.
>
> - This is a list item
> - Second item in the list
```

Which renders to:

> This is the first paragraph.
>
> This is the second paragraph.
>
> - This is a list item
> - Second item in the list

## Terms

To maintain consistency through GitLab documentation, the following guides documentation authors
on agreed styles and usage of terms.

### Merge Requests (MRs)

Merge requests allow you to exchange changes you made to source code and collaborate
with other people on the same project. You'll see this term used in the following ways:

- If you're referring to the feature, use **Merge Request**.
- In any other context, use **merge request**.

As noted in our corporate [Writing Style Guidelines](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/communication/#writing-style-guidelines),
if you use the **MR** acronym, expand it at least once per document page.
For example, the first time you specify a MR, specify either _Merge Request (MR)_ or _merge request (MR)_.

Examples:

- "We prefer GitLab Merge Requests".
- "Open a merge request to fix a broken link".
- "After you open a merge request (MR), submit your MR for review and approval".

### Describe UI elements

The following are styles to follow when describing UI elements on a screen:

- For elements with a visible label, use that label in bold with matching case. For example, `the **Cancel** button`.
- For elements with a tooltip or hover label, use that label in bold with matching case. For example, `the **Add status emoji** button`.

### Verbs for UI elements

The following are recommended verbs for specific uses with UI elements:

| Recommended         | Used for                   | Replaces                   |
|:--------------------|:---------------------------|:---------------------------|
| *click*             | buttons, links, menu items | "hit", "press", "select"   |
| *select* or *clear* | checkboxes                 | "enable", "click", "press" |
| *select*            | dropdowns                  | "pick"                     |
| *expand*            | expandable sections        | "open"                     |

### Other Verbs

| Recommended | Used for                        | Replaces              |
|:------------|:--------------------------------|:----------------------|
| *go to*     | making a browser go to location | "navigate to", "open" |

## GitLab versions and tiers

Tagged and released versions of GitLab documentation are available:

- In the [documentation archives](https://docs.gitlab.com/archives/).
- At the `/help` URL for any GitLab installation.

The version introducing a new feature is added to the top of the topic in the documentation to provide
a helpful link back to how the feature was developed.

TIP: **Tip:**
Whenever you have documentation related to the `gitlab.rb` file, you're working with a self-managed installation.
The section or page is therefore likely to apply only to self-managed instances.
If so, the relevant "`TIER` ONLY" [Product badge](#product-badges) should be included at the highest applicable heading level.

### Text for documentation requiring version text

- For features that need to declare the GitLab version that the feature was introduced. Text similar
  to the following should be added immediately below the heading as a blockquote:
  - `> Introduced in GitLab 11.3.`.

- Whenever possible, version text should have a link to the _completed_ issue, merge request, or epic that introduced the feature.
  An issue is preferred over a merge request, and a merge request is preferred over an epic. For example:
  - `> [Introduced](<link-to-issue>) in GitLab 11.3.`.

- If the feature is only available in GitLab Enterprise Edition, mention
  the [paid tier](https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/marketing/product-marketing/#tiers)
  the feature is available in:
  - `> [Introduced](<link-to-issue>) in [GitLab Starter](https://about.gitlab.com/pricing/) 11.3.`.

- If listing information for multiple version as a feature evolves, add the information to a
  block-quoted bullet list. For example:

  ```markdown
  > - [Introduced](<link-to-issue>) in GitLab 11.3.
  > - Enabled by default in GitLab 11.4.
  ```

- If a feature is moved to another tier:

  ```markdown
  > - [Introduced](<link-to-issue>) in [GitLab Premium](https://about.gitlab.com/pricing/) 11.5.
  > - [Moved](<link-to-issue>) to [GitLab Starter](https://about.gitlab.com/pricing/) in 11.8.
  > - [Moved](<link-to-issue>) to GitLab Core in 12.0.
  ```

- If a feature is deprecated, include a link to a replacement (when available):

  ```markdown
  > - [Deprecated](<link-to-issue>) in GitLab 11.3. Replaced by [meaningful text](<link-to-appropriate-documentation>).
  ```

   It's also acceptable to describe the replacement in surrounding text, if available.

   If the deprecation is not obvious in existing text, you may want to include a warning such as:

   ```markdown
   CAUTION: **Warning:**
   This feature was [deprecated](link-to-issue) in GitLab 12.3
   and replaced by [Feature name](link-to-feature-documentation).
   ```

NOTE: **Note:**
Version text must be on its own line and surrounded by blank lines to render correctly.

### Versions in the past or future

When describing functionality available in past or future versions, use:

- **Earlier**, and not **older** or **before**.
- **Later**, and not **newer** or **after**.

For example:

- Available in GitLab 12.3 and earlier.
- Available in GitLab 12.4 and later.
- If using GitLab 11.4 or earlier, ...
- If using GitLab 10.6 or later, ...

### Importance of referencing GitLab versions and tiers

Mentioning GitLab versions and tiers is important to all users and contributors
to quickly have access to the issue or merge request that
introduced the change for reference. Also, they can easily understand what
features they have in their GitLab instance and version, given that the note has
some key information.

`[Introduced](link-to-issue) in [GitLab Premium](https://about.gitlab.com/pricing/) 12.7`
links to the issue that introduced the feature, says which GitLab tier it
belongs to, says the GitLab version that it became available in, and links to
the pricing page in case the user wants to upgrade to a paid tier
to use that feature.

For example, if you're a regular user and you're looking at the docs for a feature you haven't used before,
you can immediately see if that feature is available to you or not. Alternatively,
if you've been using a certain feature for a long time and it changed in some way,
it's important
to be able to spot when it changed and what's new in that feature.

This is even more important as we don't have a perfect process for shipping docs.
Unfortunately, we still see features without docs and docs without
features. So, for now, we cannot rely 100% on the docs site versions.

Over time, version text will reference a progressively older version of GitLab.
In cases where version text refers to versions of GitLab four or more major
versions back, you can consider removing the text if it's irrelevant or confusing.

For example, if the current major version is 12.x, version text referencing versions of GitLab 8.x
and older are candidates for removal if necessary for clearer or cleaner docs.

## Products and features

Refer to the information in this section when describing products and features
within the GitLab product documentation.

### Avoid line breaks in names

When entering a product or feature name that includes a space (such as
GitLab Community Edition) or even other companies' products (such as
Amazon Web Services), be sure to not split the product or feature name across
lines with an inserted line break. Splitting product or feature names across
lines makes searching for these items more difficult, and can cause problems if
names change.

For example, the following Markdown content is *not* formatted correctly:

```markdown
When entering a product or feature name that includes a space (such as GitLab
Community Edition), don't split the product or feature name across lines.
```

Instead, it should appear similar to the following:

```markdown
When entering a product or feature name that includes a space (such as
GitLab Community Edition), don't split the product or feature name across lines.
```

### Product badges

When a feature is available in EE-only tiers, add the corresponding tier according to the
feature availability:

- For GitLab Core and GitLab.com Free: `**(CORE)**`.
- For GitLab Starter and GitLab.com Bronze: `**(STARTER)**`.
- For GitLab Premium and GitLab.com Silver: `**(PREMIUM)**`.
- For GitLab Ultimate and GitLab.com Gold: `**(ULTIMATE)**`.

To exclude GitLab.com tiers (when the feature is not available in GitLab.com), add the
keyword "only":

- For GitLab Core: `**(CORE ONLY)**`.
- For GitLab Starter: `**(STARTER ONLY)**`.
- For GitLab Premium: `**(PREMIUM ONLY)**`.
- For GitLab Ultimate: `**(ULTIMATE ONLY)**`.

For GitLab.com only tiers (when the feature is not available for self-managed instances):

- For GitLab Free and higher tiers: `**(FREE ONLY)**`.
- For GitLab Bronze and higher tiers: `**(BRONZE ONLY)**`.
- For GitLab Silver and higher tiers: `**(SILVER ONLY)**`.
- For GitLab Gold: `**(GOLD ONLY)**`.

The tier should be ideally added to headers, so that the full badge will be displayed.
However, it can be also mentioned from paragraphs, list items, and table cells. For these cases,
the tier mention will be represented by an orange info icon **(information)** that will show the tiers on hover.

Use the lowest tier at the page level, even if higher-level tiers exist on the page. For example, you might have a page that is marked as Starter but a section badged as Premium.

For example:

- `**(STARTER)**` renders as **(STARTER)**
- `**(STARTER ONLY)**` renders as **(STARTER ONLY)**
- `**(SILVER ONLY)**` renders as **(SILVER ONLY)**

The absence of tiers' mentions mean that the feature is available in GitLab Core,
GitLab.com Free, and all higher tiers.

#### How it works

Introduced by [!244](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-docs/-/merge_requests/244),
the special markup `**(STARTER)**` will generate a `span` element to trigger the
badges and tooltips (`<span class="badge-trigger starter">`). When the keyword
"only" is added, the corresponding GitLab.com badge will not be displayed.

## Specific sections

Certain styles should be applied to specific sections. Styles for specific sections are outlined below.

### GitLab restart

There are many cases that a restart/reconfigure of GitLab is required. To
avoid duplication, link to the special document that can be found in
[`doc/administration/restart_gitlab.md`](../../administration/restart_gitlab.md).
Usually the text will read like:

```markdown
Save the file and [reconfigure GitLab](../../administration/restart_gitlab.md)
for the changes to take effect.
```

If the document you are editing resides in a place other than the GitLab CE/EE
`doc/` directory, instead of the relative link, use the full path:
`https://docs.gitlab.com/ce/administration/restart_gitlab.html`.
Replace `reconfigure` with `restart` where appropriate.

### Installation guide

**Ruby:**
In [step 2 of the installation guide](../../install/installation.md#2-ruby),
we install Ruby from source. Whenever there is a new version that needs to
be updated, remember to change it throughout the codeblock and also replace
the sha256sum (it can be found in the [downloads page](https://www.ruby-lang.org/en/downloads/) of the Ruby
website).

### Configuration documentation for source and Omnibus installations

GitLab currently officially supports two installation methods: installations
from source and Omnibus packages installations.

Whenever there is a setting that is configurable for both installation methods,
prefer to document it in the CE docs to avoid duplication.

Configuration settings include:

1. Settings that touch configuration files in `config/`.
1. NGINX settings and settings in `lib/support/` in general.

When there is a list of steps to perform, usually that entails editing the
configuration file and reconfiguring/restarting GitLab. In such case, follow
the style below as a guide:

````markdown
**For Omnibus installations**

1. Edit `/etc/gitlab/gitlab.rb`:

   ```ruby
   external_url "https://gitlab.example.com"
   ```

1. Save the file and [reconfigure](path/to/administration/restart_gitlab.md#omnibus-gitlab-reconfigure) GitLab for the changes to take effect.

---

**For installations from source**

1. Edit `config/gitlab.yml`:

   ```yaml
   gitlab:
     host: "gitlab.example.com"
   ```

1. Save the file and [restart](path/to/administration/restart_gitlab.md#installations-from-source) GitLab for the changes to take effect.
````

In this case:

- Before each step list the installation method is declared in bold.
- Three dashes (`---`) are used to create a horizontal line and separate the
  two methods.
- The code blocks are indented one or more spaces under the list item to render
  correctly.
- Different highlighting languages are used for each config in the code block.
- The [GitLab Restart](#gitlab-restart) section is used to explain a required restart/reconfigure of GitLab.

### Troubleshooting

For troubleshooting sections, you should provide as much context as possible so
users can identify the problem they are facing and resolve it on their own. You
can facilitate this by making sure the troubleshooting content addresses:

1. The problem the user needs to solve.
1. How the user can confirm they have the problem.
1. Steps the user can take towards resolution of the problem.

If the contents of each category can be summarized in one line and a list of steps aren't required, consider setting up a
[table](#tables) with headers of *Problem* \| *Cause* \| *Solution* (or *Workaround* if the fix is temporary), or *Error message* \| *Solution*.

## Feature flags

Learn how to [document features deployed behind flags](feature_flags.md).
For guidance on developing GitLab with feature flags, see
[Feature flags in development of GitLab](../feature_flags/index.md).

## API

Here is a list of must-have items. Use them in the exact order that appears
on this document. Further explanation is given below.

- Every method must have the REST API request. For example:

  ```plaintext
  GET /projects/:id/repository/branches
  ```

- Every method must have a detailed
  [description of the parameters](#method-description).
- Every method must have a cURL example.
- Every method must have a response body (in JSON format).

### API topic template

The following can be used as a template to get started:

````markdown
## Descriptive title

One or two sentence description of what endpoint does.

```plaintext
METHOD /endpoint
```

| Attribute   | Type     | Required | Description           |
|:------------|:---------|:---------|:----------------------|
| `attribute` | datatype | yes/no   | Detailed description. |
| `attribute` | datatype | yes/no   | Detailed description. |

Example request:

```shell
curl --header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>" 'https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/endpoint?parameters'
```

Example response:

```json
[
  {
  }
]
```
````

### Fake user information

You may need to demonstrate an API call or a cURL command that includes the name
and email address of a user. Don't use real user information in API calls:

- **Email addresses**: Use an email address ending in `example.com`.
- **Names**: Use strings like `Example Username`. Alternatively, use diverse or non-gendered names with
  common surnames, such as `Sidney Jones`, `Zhang Wei`. or `Maria Garcia`.

### Fake URLs

When including sample URLs in the documentation, use:

- `example.com` when the domain name is generic.
- `gitlab.example.com` when referring to self-managed instances of GitLab.

### Fake tokens

There may be times where a token is needed to demonstrate an API call using
cURL or a variable used in CI. It is strongly advised not to use real
tokens in documentation even if the probability of a token being exploited is
low.

You can use the following fake tokens as examples.

| Token type            | Token value                                                        |
|:----------------------|:-------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Private user token    | `<your_access_token>`                                              |
| Personal access token | `n671WNGecHugsdEDPsyo`                                             |
| Application ID        | `2fcb195768c39e9a94cec2c2e32c59c0aad7a3365c10892e8116b5d83d4096b6` |
| Application secret    | `04f294d1eaca42b8692017b426d53bbc8fe75f827734f0260710b83a556082df` |
| CI/CD variable        | `Li8j-mLUVA3eZYjPfd_H`                                             |
| Specific Runner token | `yrnZW46BrtBFqM7xDzE7dddd`                                         |
| Shared Runner token   | `6Vk7ZsosqQyfreAxXTZr`                                             |
| Trigger token         | `be20d8dcc028677c931e04f3871a9b`                                   |
| Webhook secret token  | `6XhDroRcYPM5by_h-HLY`                                             |
| Health check token    | `Tu7BgjR9qeZTEyRzGG2P`                                             |
| Request profile token | `7VgpS4Ax5utVD2esNstz`                                             |

### Method description

Use the following table headers to describe the methods. Attributes should
always be in code blocks using backticks (`` ` ``).

```markdown
| Attribute | Type | Required | Description |
|:----------|:-----|:---------|:------------|
```

Rendered example:

| Attribute | Type   | Required | Description         |
|:----------|:-------|:---------|:--------------------|
| `user`    | string | yes      | The GitLab username |

### cURL commands

- Use `https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/` as an endpoint.
- Wherever needed use this personal access token: `<your_access_token>`.
- Always put the request first. `GET` is the default so you don't have to
  include it.
- Wrap the URL in double quotes (`"`).
- Prefer to use examples using the personal access token and don't pass data of
  username and password.

| Methods                                         | Description                                           |
|:-------------------------------------------     |:------------------------------------------------------|
| `--header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>"` | Use this method as is, whenever authentication needed |
| `--request POST`                                | Use this method when creating new objects             |
| `--request PUT`                                 | Use this method when updating existing objects        |
| `--request DELETE`                              | Use this method when removing existing objects        |

### cURL Examples

Below is a set of [cURL](https://curl.haxx.se) examples that you can use in the API documentation.

#### Simple cURL command

Get the details of a group:

```shell
curl --header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>" https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/groups/gitlab-org
```

#### cURL example with parameters passed in the URL

Create a new project under the authenticated user's namespace:

```shell
curl --request POST --header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>" "https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/projects?name=foo"
```

#### Post data using cURL's `--data`

Instead of using `--request POST` and appending the parameters to the URI, you can use
cURL's `--data` option. The example below will create a new project `foo` under
the authenticated user's namespace.

```shell
curl --data "name=foo" --header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>" "https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/projects"
```

#### Post data using JSON content

> **Note:** In this example we create a new group. Watch carefully the single
and double quotes.

```shell
curl --request POST --header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>" --header "Content-Type: application/json" --data '{"path": "my-group", "name": "My group"}' https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/groups
```

#### Post data using form-data

Instead of using JSON or urlencode you can use multipart/form-data which
properly handles data encoding:

```shell
curl --request POST --header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>" --form "title=ssh-key" --form "key=ssh-rsa AAAAB3NzaC1yc2EA..." https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/users/25/keys
```

The above example is run by and administrator and will add an SSH public key
titled `ssh-key` to user's account which has an ID of 25.

#### Escape special characters

Spaces or slashes (`/`) may sometimes result to errors, thus it is recommended
to escape them when possible. In the example below we create a new issue which
contains spaces in its title. Observe how spaces are escaped using the `%20`
ASCII code.

```shell
curl --request POST --header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>" "https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/projects/42/issues?title=Hello%20Dude"
```

Use `%2F` for slashes (`/`).

#### Pass arrays to API calls

The GitLab API sometimes accepts arrays of strings or integers. For example, to
exclude specific users when requesting a list of users for a project, you would do something like this:

```shell
curl --request PUT --header "PRIVATE-TOKEN: <your_access_token>" --data "skip_users[]=<user_id>" --data "skip_users[]=<user_id>" https://gitlab.example.com/api/v4/projects/<project_id>/users
```