How to Build a WordPress Website from Scratch - Tips and Tricks

How to Build a WordPress Website from Scratch – Tips and Tricks

Building a website can seem like a colossal task, especially for a beginner. But with WordPress, it has never been easier. This detailed guide will walk you through how to build a WordPress website from scratch.

Even without any coding knowledge, you can confidently and effortlessly create professional-looking websites thanks to WordPress. With its user-friendly interface and a wealth of themes, plugin options, and other tools, you're in for a fun ride to building your dream website.

Step 1: Setting up a Hosting account and Domain Name

Every website needs a domain name – that is the web address people type in to access your site. You will also require a hosting account, which is essentially a space on the web where your site's files will be stored.

Services like Bluehost, GoDaddy and SiteGround offer combined hosting and domain name services suitable for WordPress sites. Follow their prompts to set up your account and choose your domain name.

Step 2: Installing Wordpress

After setting up your hosting account and domain, the next step is installing WordPress. Most hosting providers offer easy one-click WordPress installation services. From your hosting account dashboard, just locate the WordPress installer and follow the prompts.

Step 3: Choosing a Theme

WordPress has a plethora of themes you can choose from to determine your website's appearance. Access WordPress themes by clicking 'Appearance' and then 'Themes' on your WordPress dashboard. Whether you're building a blog, a business website, or an eCommerce store, there's a theme for you.

Step 4: Customizing Your Site

Once you've selected a theme, it's time to personalize it. WordPress has a 'Customize' option that allows you to tweak various aspects including the header, menu, page layout, colours, and fonts to fit your preference.

Step 5: Creating Essential Pages

Now it's time to add content to your website by creating pages. On your dashboard, click on 'Pages' and start with the basics like the 'Home', 'About Us', and 'Contact Us' pages.

Step 6: Setting up a Blogging Page

If you intend to blog, navigate to 'Posts' on your dashboard and click 'Add New.' Just like pages, you can add content, images, videos and even categorize your blog posts.

Step 7: Installing Plugins

Plugins add extra functionality to your site, and there are thousands to choose from. From SEO optimization to social media sharing and security-boosting plugins, these useful tools can significantly enrich your site.

Step 8: Optimization

As you complete your site, don't forget optimization for search engines. Installing an SEO plugin like Yoast SEO can help guide you in optimizing each page and post on your site.

Step 9: Launching Your Site

Once you're satisfied with your site, it's time to go live. Be sure to check every link and test submit forms to ensure your website is running smoothly.

Building a WordPress website from scratch is no easy task, but it's entirely doable with some patience and persistence. No matter how daunting it may seem, remember that every professional was once a beginner. Happy building!