> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://wpmaps-docs.mapster.me/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://wpmaps-docs.mapster.me/mapster-wp-maps-v2/getting-started/your-first-map.md).

# Your First Map

This walkthrough will get you from zero to a working embedded map. It takes about five minutes.

## 1. Create a New Map

In your WordPress admin, go to **Maps > Add New**. This opens the **Mapmaker** — the visual editor where you'll configure everything about your map.

When the Mapmaker loads, you'll see:

* A **left panel** with your features list and controls
* A **live map preview** in the center and Map Settings button
* A **right panel** that shows context-sensitive settings (it starts with a welcome screen and quick-start links)
* A **top bar** with Save, Undo/Redo, and a shortcode copy button

<figure><img src="/files/VcGoz373cha96U0SWMAI" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 2. Add a Feature

The quickest way to add a point to your map is to click directly on the map. In the right panel, click **Add a point by clicking the map**, then click anywhere on the map preview to drop a marker.

You can also import existing data (GeoJSON, KML, GPX, or Shapefile) by clicking **Import a file** in the right panel.

<figure><img src="/files/P2F1X4eL1sX6yqw3jjUy" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 3. Style Your Feature

Once you've added a marker, it appears in the **left panel** under Features. Click it to select it — the right panel will switch to show that feature's settings, where you can adjust its color, size, popup content, and more.

> **Tip:** You can add as many features as you like before saving. See [Features](/mapster-wp-maps-v2/the-mapmaker/features.md) and [Styling](/mapster-wp-maps-v2/the-mapmaker/styling.md) for the full range of options.

## 4. Set Your Map Style

To change your map's base style, open **Map Settings** using the settings icon in the bottom bar (or the style shortcut in the right panel welcome screen). From there you can choose your map library, pick a style, and set the default view.

<figure><img src="/files/sSVlPEDq6AlLo8R4YD6l" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 5. Save and Get Your Shortcode

When you're happy with your map, click **Save** in the top-right corner. Once saved, click the **\[]** (shortcode) button next to Save — this copies your map's shortcode to your clipboard.

The shortcode looks like this:

```
[mapster_wp_map id="5"]
```

## 6. Embed Your Map

Paste the shortcode into any WordPress page, post, or widget area. Your map will render on the frontend exactly as it appears in the Mapmaker preview.

You can also use the Mapster Map Select Gutenberg widget to select a map if you prefer.

<figure><img src="/files/ZZnjwoxsf8387fjeQf94" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

That's it! From here, explore the [Mapmaker](/mapster-wp-maps-v2/the-mapmaker/interface-overview.md) section to learn about the full range of features, controls, and styling options.