WordPress Basics: Dashboard, Themes

WordPress Basics and Dashboard Overview

• WordPress is a popular content management system (CMS) that simplifies website creation and management.
• The WordPress dashboard serves as the central control panel for managing a website.
• Key dashboard sections include Posts, Media, Pages, Comments, Appearance, Plugins, Users, Tools, and Settings.
• Posts are for timely content like blog entries, while Pages are for static content such as an About Us or Contact page.
• The Appearance section is where themes are managed and customized.
• Plugins extend WordPress functionality by adding features like contact forms or e-commerce capabilities.

Themes Installation and Customization

• WordPress themes control the visual design of a website.
• Themes can be installed from the WordPress theme directory or uploaded as a ZIP file.
• The WordPress theme directory offers both free and premium themes.
• Customization options vary by theme, but commonly include changing colors, fonts, and layout.
• Child themes allow modifications without altering the parent theme's code, preserving changes during updates.

Plugins Installation and Essential Plugins Usage

• WordPress plugins add extra functionality to a website.
• Plugins are installed from the WordPress plugin directory or uploaded as a ZIP file.
• Essential plugins include those for security, SEO, backups, and contact forms.
• Plugins should be kept updated to ensure compatibility and security.
• Too many plugins can slow down a website, so it's important to only install what is needed.

Elementor Page Builder

• Elementor is a WordPress page builder plugin that allows users to create custom page layouts using a drag-and-drop interface.
• With Elementor, designs can be created visually without coding.
• Elementor offers a variety of widgets, including text, images, buttons, and forms.
• Elementor templates can be used to quickly create professionally designed pages.
• Both a free and a paid version of Elementor are available, with the paid version offering more features and templates.

Web Hosting and Domain Setup

• Web hosting provides server space for a website's files.
• A domain name is the address (URL) where visitors find a website.
• Hosting and domain name registration are usually purchased from web hosting providers.
• WordPress can be installed manually or through a one-click installer provided by the web hosting provider.
• An SSL certificate should be installed to secure a website with HTTPS.

Managing Pages, Posts, and Media Content in WordPress

• WordPress pages are for static content, like an About Us or Services page.
• WordPress posts are for dynamic content, like blog articles.
• Media files, such as images and videos, are uploaded to the Media Library.
• Pages and posts can be organized using categories and tags.
• The WordPress editor allows formatting of content with text, images, and other media.