TDX Knowledge Article Template, External Reference Article

Summary

Defines the standard structure and required sections for creating external reference knowledge base articles that provide clear, consistent, and reusable informational content for self-service users.

Body

Title

Titles should use the following naming convention: Service Name, Service Offering Name, Description of Article. The title will be entered into the Subject field, it will not be included in the body of the article.

Example:
Use: Microsoft Teams, Scheduling a Meeting
Instead of: How do I schedule a meeting with Microsoft Teams?

Overview

Specific to this article: This template is for external reference articles.

Template creation: Provide a short, plain-language summary of what this article covers. Use present-tense verbs and avoid phrasing like “this article will explain…”

Example: “Understand the different meeting roles in Microsoft Teams and how permissions affect participants.”

[Note: this should be in the TDX Summary and included in the body of the article]

What This Is About

Describe the topic from the user’s point of view. Focus on what the user is trying to understand or decide (not how to fix a problem).

  • “I want to understand the different meeting roles.”
  • “I need to know what permissions presenters have.”
  • “I’m not sure which option applies to my situation.”

Applies To

  • Platforms, devices, OS versions (if relevant)
  • Specific service offerings, features, or audiences
  • Any scope limitations (e.g., “University-managed devices only”)

Before You Start

Optional section for access, context, or prerequisites needed to understand this information.

  • Required access level or role
  • Where the user can find needed information/settings
  • Dependencies such as enrollment, licensing, or VPN (only if relevant to understanding)

Details

Explain the concept, policy, feature, or process in a way that supports understanding and self-service. Organize content for scanning.

  • Use short paragraphs and bullets
  • Define key terms and use bold for important labels
  • Include examples or scenarios where helpful
  • Avoid step-by-step resolution/troubleshooting unless it is purely explanatory

Things to Know

Optional section for exceptions, limitations, or common misunderstandings.

  • If this does not apply, consider…
  • Known limitations or constraints
  • Common points of confusion and clarifications

Need More Help?

If you still have questions after using this article, please contact [IT Partners at Education Help Desk] for additional assistance.

[add specific information or links to other areas]

Additional Information

  • Related articles (use descriptive link text)
  • Links to documentation or service pages

Frequently Ask Questions

Optional section. List frequently asked questions and answers.

  • Q: [Question]
    A: [Answer]
  • Q: [Question]
    A: [Answer]

Search Criteria

  • Include keywords a user might search for
  • Common synonyms or alternate names
  • Acronyms or related concepts
  • Common misspellings

Keywords

List helpful search terms including synonyms, acronyms, alternate naming, and common misspellings.

Details

Details

Article ID: 3040
Created
Wed 1/14/26 12:05 PM
Modified
Wed 1/14/26 12:08 PM