Quick answer
To create your first Coda doc, log in to Coda, click Create doc from your workspace home, choose a blank doc or template, then name it. Add pages, insert a table, and start typing to build structure. Coda saves changes automatically, and you can share the doc using the Share button in the top right.
Steps at a glance
- Log in to Coda and open your workspace home screen.
- Click "+ New doc" to start a blank document.
- Name your doc by clicking the title at the top.
- Add pages and tables to organize your content.
- Type directly on the canvas to add text and formulas.
- Insert building blocks like tables, images, or embeds.
- Share your doc using the Share button in the top right.
Summary
A Coda doc is a flexible canvas that combines text, tables, and interactive elements in one workspace. Creating your first doc sets up the foundation for building trackers, wikis, dashboards, or any tool you design around your own data.
Step-by-step guide
Step 1
Sign in and open your workspace home
Log in to your Coda account and land on the workspace home screen. This is where every doc you own or have access to is listed, and it's the starting point for creating something new.
Step 2
Start a new doc
Click the "+ New doc" button, usually found in the top left or center of your workspace home. You'll be prompted to choose a blank doc or browse a gallery of templates for things like project trackers, meeting notes, or CRMs — picking a template can save time if you don't want to start from scratch.
Step 3
Name your doc
Click the untitled text at the top of the page and type a clear, descriptive name. A good name makes the doc easier to find later, especially once your workspace has several docs in it.
Step 4
Add pages to organize your content
Use the sidebar to add new pages for different sections of your doc, such as an overview page, a task list, or a resources page. Check out how to add pages for details on nesting subpages and organizing a larger doc structure.
Step 5
Insert a table for structured data
Type "/table" on any page and select a table option to add structured data alongside your notes. If you want to build something more advanced, see how to create a table for guidance on setting up columns and rows.
Step 6
Add text, images, and other content blocks
Click anywhere on the canvas and start typing, or use the "/" command to insert images, embeds, dividers, or checklists. Coda docs work like a blend of a document and a database, so you can mix free-form writing with structured blocks on the same page.
Step 7
Share your doc and set permissions
Click the Share button in the top right corner to invite teammates by email or generate a shareable link. From the sharing panel, you can set each person's access level to view, comment, or edit, which controls who can change your doc's structure and data.
Why this matters
You're starting a new project and need one place to hold notes, tasks, and data instead of juggling separate apps. Creating your first Coda doc gives you a blank canvas you can shape into a tracker, roadmap, or knowledge base as your needs grow.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a paid Coda plan to create my first doc?
No, creating and editing docs is available on Coda's free plan. Paid plans add higher limits on things like automations and packs, but you can build a fully functional doc for free.
Can I start from a template instead of a blank doc?
Yes, when you click to create a new doc, Coda shows a gallery of templates for common use cases like project tracking or note-taking. Selecting one gives you a pre-built structure you can edit right away.
Can I connect my Coda doc to other tools?
Yes, Coda supports integrations called Packs that let you pull in data from other apps or connect to services like Google Sheets. You can add these from the Insert menu once your doc is set up.
How do I control who can see or edit my doc?
Use the Share button in the top right to add collaborators and assign them view, comment, or edit permissions. You can also generate a link with specific access settings for people outside your workspace.
Related guides
Continue with more step-by-step guides for getting work done.
How to Add Pages in CodaLearn how to add, place, and organize pages and subpages in Coda using the page list panel, right-click menu, and New Page button.
How to Create a Table in CodaLearn how to create a table in Coda using the slash command or plus button, then customize columns and rows for your data.
How to Create Templates in CodaLearn how to build reusable Coda templates using building blocks and doc publishing, from quick /commands to full workspace template galleries.
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