What collections are
A collection is a group of products, like 'Dolls from the 1960s' or 'Holiday scents.' One product can be in several collections. Collections become pages shoppers can browse.
Manual vs. automated collections
In a manual collection, you pick each product yourself. In an automated collection, you set conditions, such as 'tag equals 1960s,' and matching products join automatically. Automated collections save time as your catalog grows, but only if you tag products consistently.
Navigation menus
Your menu is the list of links at the top of the store. Keep it short: a few main collections, an About page, and contact or policies. Use names shoppers understand, not inside jokes. Test every menu link on a phone.
A real-world example
A candle maker makes collections by scent family and one for gift sets, then puts 'Shop by Scent,' 'Gift Sets,' and 'About' in the menu.
Steps to take
- List 3–5 ways shoppers would look for your products.
- Create a collection for each.
- Use consistent tags if you use automated collections.
- Add main collections to the menu.
- Test every link on a phone.
Collections check
This checklist is optional and not saved. Copy it to keep a personal note. Do not enter sensitive information.
Go deeper in related modules
Not sure what a word means? Check Business Words Made Simple.
Official guidance
Use these official sources for current rules and details. They do not replace advice for your particular business.
- Shopify Help: Collections (opens in a new tab)
Official steps for manual and automated collections.
- Shopify Help Center (opens in a new tab)
Official how-to articles for every part of the store admin.