# How to Post a Check-in

Sharing your location with your community is easy! Follow these simple steps to add a check-in to your activity post.

---

## Posting a Check-in from the Activity Stream

### Step 1: Start a New Post

1. Go to the activity stream on your site
2. Click on the "What's new?" text box to start writing your post

### Step 2: Click the Location Icon

1. Look for the **map pin icon** below the text box
2. Click on it to open the location panel

![Location Icon](../screenshots/location-icon.png)

### Step 3: Search for Your Location

1. A search box will appear
2. Start typing your location (city name, place name, or address)
3. As you type, suggestions will appear
4. Click on the correct location from the list

**Example searches:**
- "Central Park, New York"
- "Eiffel Tower"
- "123 Main Street, Los Angeles"

### Step 4: Confirm Your Location

1. Your selected location will appear in the location field
2. A map preview may show your selected spot
3. Optionally, check "Add to My Places" to save this location for quick access later

### Step 5: Post Your Update

1. Write your message in the text box
2. Click **Post Update**
3. Your activity will now show your location!

---

## What Your Check-in Looks Like

After posting, your activity will display:

- Your message
- A clickable location link (opens in Google Maps)
- A small map showing your check-in spot

**Example:**
> "Having a great time exploring the city! -at Central Park, New York"

---

## Tips for Better Check-ins

### Be Specific
Instead of just "New York," try "Times Square, New York" for a more precise location.

### Use Place Names
Searching for business names or landmarks often gives more accurate results than street addresses.

### Save Favorite Places
Check the "Add to My Places" option for locations you visit often. They'll be easier to find next time!

### Allow Location Access
For the best experience, allow your browser to access your location when prompted. This helps with nearby suggestions.

---

## Check-in from Group Activity

You can also add check-ins when posting in BuddyPress groups:

1. Go to any group you're a member of
2. Navigate to the group's Activity tab
3. Follow the same steps as above
4. Your check-in will appear in both the group activity and your personal activity

---

## Quick Video Guide

*[Coming soon: Step-by-step video tutorial]*

---

## Common Questions

**Q: Why can't I see the location icon?**
A: Make sure you're logged in and the site admin has enabled check-ins.

**Q: The location suggestions aren't showing up?**
A: Check your internet connection. If the problem persists, the site admin may need to verify the Google API key.

**Q: Can I edit my location after posting?**
A: Currently, you'll need to delete the post and create a new one with the correct location.

---

## Next Steps

- [View and manage your check-ins](./managing-checkins.md)
- [Understanding the Check-ins tab on your profile](./profile-checkins.md)
- [Troubleshooting common issues](./troubleshooting.md)
