Write your first page
Create a file named research-background.md in your website repository. Copy this complete example, replace the text with your own research story, and commit the file.
---
layout: page
title: Research background
permalink: /research-background/
---
Our project explores how coastal ecosystems change over time.
## Why this matters
Explain the problem and who benefits from the research.
## What we will do
- Observe changes in selected study areas.
- Work with local communities.
- Share findings and practical recommendations.
## Find out more
[Visit our university](https://www.jcu.edu.au/).
Understand the small header
The lines between --- markers are YAML front matter: settings attached to this page. layout: page selects the standard page template. title supplies its main heading, so you do not repeat that heading in the body. permalink sets the published address; choose a short, unique path. Keep the markers and indentation intact.
The text below the second marker is the page body. Markdown uses ## for section headings and - for list items. Blank lines separate paragraphs. You can add an optional lead: line to the header for a short introduction under the title, but you do not need it for this example.
Put the page in the menu
Add this item to _data/navigation.yml, after Home:
- title: Research background
url: /research-background/
The menu URL must match the page’s permalink. Keep the existing Home item. Commit the menu change, wait for publishing, then test the link on the live site.
Continue at your own pace
Use Plain Markdown pages for images, tables, links, and more text formatting. Learn YAML basics when you need additional settings. When the story calls for panels, columns, or cards, go to Build your pages.