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Files Post

Intermediate Training Module 1: Content Types

File posts provide a structured way to manage documents on your website. Rather than linking directly to files stored in the Media Library, File posts create a dedicated content item that can be categorized, displayed in listings, and updated over time.

One of the biggest advantages of using File posts is that documents can be replaced without changing the public URL. This helps prevent broken links and makes it easier to maintain resources that are updated regularly.

Examples include:

When to Use a File Post

Use a File post when you want visitors to download or access a document.

File posts work particularly well when:

Using File posts instead of linking directly to uploaded files can make document management much easier over time.

Creating a File Post

To create a File post:

  1. From the Dashboard, select Files > Add New.
  2. Enter a title for the file.
  3. Add a short description explaining what the file contains.
  4. Upload the document.
  5. Save or publish the File post.

The title and description help visitors understand the purpose of the document before downloading it.

Uploading a File

Within the File post, select the upload option to add your document.

Common supported file types include:

Additional file types may be available depending on your website’s configuration.

File Descriptions

Every File post should include a clear description. A good description improves accessibility and helps users determine whether a document is relevant before downloading it.

Descriptions help visitors understand:

Example

Title
2026 Annual Report

Description
Download the university’s annual report, including financial highlights, strategic initiatives, and year-end achievements.

Organizing Files with Categories

Categories can be used to organize related documents.

Examples include:

Categories make it easier to:

As your collection of files grows, consistent categorization becomes increasingly important.

Displaying Files on Your Website

File posts can be displayed using listing and card blocks.

This allows visitors to browse and download documents from a central location rather than managing individual links throughout the site.

Common uses include:

You’ll learn more about displaying files in Module 3: Listings & Cards.

Updating Existing Files

One of the primary benefits of File posts is that documents can be updated without changing where they appear on the website.

When a new version of a document becomes available:

  1. Open the existing File post.
  2. Replace the current file.
  3. Save your changes.

This approach helps maintain continuity and avoids broken links across your website.

Best Practices

Use Meaningful Titles
Titles should clearly identify the document.

Good Examples:

Write Helpful Descriptions
Descriptions should explain what the document contains and who it is for.

Categorize Consistently
Use agreed-upon categories to improve organization and future maintenance.

Replace Rather Than Recreate
When updating a document, update the existing File post whenever possible rather than creating a new one.

Prefer Accessible File Formats
Whenever possible, ensure documents are accessible and readable by all users.

Try it Out!

Practice creating and managing a File post.

  1. Create a new File post.
  2. Add a title and description.
  3. Upload a document.
  4. Assign a category.
  5. Publish the File post.
  6. Review the file on the front end.
  7. Explore how files can be displayed through listings and cards.