The format is {{s-new|parameter}}, where parameter is replaced by one of the parameter names shown in the following table. The use of a parameter is optional.

Note: Only one parameter can be used in a single line of code.

In addition, the parameter, reason, may be used to designate the reason(s) for the title (or loss); enter a short explanation after entering this parameter, if necessary.

This template allows for multiple row-spans using the parameter |rows=| between the template name and the first parameter.

From the James Hamilton, 4th Duke of Hamilton article:

{{s-start}}
{{s-reg|gb}}
{{s-new | creation}}
{{s-ttl | title  = [[Duke of Brandon]] | years = 1711–1712}}
{{s-aft | after  = [[James Hamilton, 5th Duke of Hamilton|James Douglas-Hamilton]]}}
{{s-end}}

Documentation for creating succession boxes can be found at Template:s-start/doc.