> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.consuldemocracy.org/use_guide/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.consuldemocracy.org/use_guide/3.-collaborative-legislation/3.1.-preliminary-discussion.md).
# 3.1. Preliminary discussion
A first phase of participation may consist of a preliminary discussion. It is common to use this phase when the process begins and no initial text is yet available. It is useful for deciding issues around the main issues to be addressed, and thus steering the process in the most appropriate direction. At this stage, information is published about the regulation or plan that you want to start dealing with as well as any additional documentation that may be useful.
Then there are some questions about the main issues of the topic to be addressed, which users will be able to answer openly.
Users can answer the questions, debate with other people and vote on all the answers to identify the most interesting ones. CONSUL DEMOCRACY Use
