I used to co-own LumarCraft, one of the most popular tekkit raiding servers (until it shut down, that is), and I'd like to share some tips to you new server owners on how to plan your server!

Note: Make sure you do this before you even buy a hosting plan! Also, this one is four tips instead of five!

Tip one - Finding your host:
I usually recommend to do this first, not because it will impact what kind of server you make, just so that you have one of the more annoying parts done. Here are some things to consider when selecting your host:

• It's not just about RAM! Make sure you get good CPU too.
  
• Make sure they have good reviews from other people.
  
• Make sure they have costumer service, and that it's good.
  
• If you know someone who uses that host, get on, and see if it's laggy.
  
• Usually if a plan is more expensive for the same amount of RAM/CPU, you get good service and connection.
  

Tip two - Document planning:
I have *always* planned my servers on documents before I start. This way, you will know exactly what kind of server you want, and what plugins to get. Things to include in your server planning document are:

• Server description; What the server is about.
  
• Primary goal of the server.
  
• Secondary goal of the server.
  
• Plugins required for the server.
  
• Staff/player/donation ranks.
  

Tip three - Startup staff:
Before you start your server, you will want a small team of moderators and builders for your server to help it get started! For this tip, I will refer you to my "Tips for Server Owners - Staff" blog, so I don't repeat myself. This step is important so you aren't wasting time after you've bought your hosting plan!

Tip four - Lists:
Before your server goes public, make sure you put yourself on the server lists you're going to add yourself to, so that you don't need to rush to get players when you're ready.

A small disclaimer:
In no way shape or form am I saying these are the only ways to plan your server. I am saying what has worked for me in the past, and will help new server owners start to properly plan your server. If you have suggestions of your own, please comment them below to help other owners out!

Well thanks for reading guys, if this gets good reviews I will write more blogs about this subject. Thanks for stopping by! If you liked the post, please leave a diamond and a favorite! Leave me some feedback in the comments!Remember to check out my otherTips for Server Ownersblogs as well!