> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.wildmail.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.wildmail.io/activecampaign-academy/exploring-further/build-your-automations/how-to-set-up-your-first-automation.md).

# How to set up your first automation

{% hint style="info" %}
In this section, you will find insights on how to set up your first automation in ActiveCampaign. 
{% endhint %}

### **How to Create An Automation from Scratch**

1\. Add a start trigger\
2\. Add a tag for future segmentation\
3\. Add the "Send an email" action to your automation to deliver a welcome or lead magnet\
4\. Customize your email\
5\. Add a “Wait” condition\
6\. Add “If/Else” conditions for segmentation and personalization

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* **Campaigns**: One-off emails (e.g. [newsletters](/activecampaign-academy/getting-started/build-your-campaigns/how-to-create-newsletters.md), product updates, flash sales)
* **Automations**: Evergreen marketing efforts that send out based on specific conditions or actions by contacts (e.g. nurture sequence, post-purchase sequence, webinar registration). You need to[ build automations](/activecampaign-academy/exploring-further/build-your-automations.md) and turn them on to start your evergreen actions
  {% endhint %}

Let's get to it! Below is the step-by-step tutorial on how to set up an automation with ActiveCampaign. :point\_down:

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30yYBJ6KWfA>" %}

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to [email us](mailto:support@wildmail.io) for free assistance, we are happy to help you.