Templates help you start with a proven contest structure instead of a blank setup. They pre-fill the contest idea, suggested prizes, entry settings, design defaults, and any recommended bonus entry actions.

## Opening the Template Gallery

1. Open **UserLoop Contests** in Shopify admin.
2. Click **Templates** from the app navigation, or choose **Create contest** and select a template option.
3. Browse all templates, search by keyword, or filter by category.

Template categories include:

- **Social Media**
- **Email & Lists**
- **Referral & Viral**
- **Product Launch**
- **Photo & UGC**
- **Quiz & Trivia**
- **Seasonal**
- **Sales & Promos**

## Using a Template

1. Find a template that matches your campaign goal.
2. Click **Use template**.
3. Review the pre-filled contest details.
4. Replace placeholder copy, dates, prizes, and social links with your own details.
5. Save the contest.

Templates are a starting point. You can change any field before publishing.

## Starting From Scratch

Use **Start from scratch** when you already know exactly what you want to build. This opens a blank contest setup with no pre-filled prizes or actions.

## Recommended Templates During Onboarding

During onboarding, UserLoop asks about your contest goal and campaign type. It uses those answers to recommend relevant templates, such as email list builders, referral challenges, launch giveaways, or UGC campaigns.

## Tips

- Pick the template closest to your campaign objective, not the one with the exact same prize.
- Check every pre-filled bonus action before activating the contest.
- Update default terms and conditions so they match your own rules and jurisdiction.