When you first do a diary, it's by default on Auto Format. When you submit, Scoop draws it into its maw and formats the html. If you come back to edit, you'll see the mark-up that has been added. In editing, add your own mark-up. Mostly, that means putting <p> where you want a paragraph break. (I've done this for the Update etc).

Next, I don't know what the difference between the Update and Save buttons is. Maybe none. [UPDATE] is some kind of system macro, not user-defined in any case. It doesn't kick in on Preview, but when you hit Save or Update.

The image: aligned left by default. Where do you want it?

The poll: aargh I seem to remember people having problems editing or adding to a poll. I can try if you give me the list (by mail if you want).