# Creating a panel from scratch

Learn how to create a research panel from scratch in Participant Kit.

Source: https://participantkit.com/help/courses/admin/creating-a-panel

Video: https://www.loom.com/share/8e3b9689033e4d5c9573030b0460b26f

## Key takeaways

💡 **Remember:** Custom fields become filterable columns - set them up before creating recruitment forms

🧪 **Try:** Set up custom fields before creating recruitment forms - it's easier to map questions when fields already exist

⚠️ **Watch for:** Unmapped form questions - data gets stored but won't show as columns in your panel view

⚡ **Quick tip:** Internal panel names can differ from public titles - keep your naming tidy while showing friendly names to participants