The Content Editor (toolbar) in Moodle forums has templates so you can quickly create robust directions that clearly communicate your expectations. 

1. Create a forum (or if you already have created the forum, click "Edit/edit settings" to the right of the forum 
   
   
   
   
2. In the "Description" area, expand the content editor by clicking the square "Toggle."
   
   
   
   
3. Locate and click on the square icon to "insert predefined template content." [Note: if you are using the Atto editor, this icon might appear in a slightly different position on the toolbar than shown below.]
   
   
   
   
4. Scroll down and click on "Forum directions:
   
   
   
   
5. You will see the template that includes instructions about deadlines and how to post. Click "Insert."
   
   
   
   
6. Once you have inserted the template, you can customize the instructions to fit your course schedule and assignment demands.
   
   
   
   
7. If you are using a Q&A style forum it is very important that you inform students of the differences (in how they will post/when they will see other students' posts). In the "insert predefined template content" dropdown list, there is also a template for that type of forum.