How to Use the WordPress Block Editor: A Comprehensive Guide

With the introduction of WordPress 5.0, the platform launched a significant transformation to the way users create content: the Block Editor, commonly referred to as Gutenberg. This fresh editor offers a streamlined way of building pages and posts, allowing users to piece together different content blocks like Lego bricks. If you’re looking to master the WordPress Block Editor, you’ve landed in the right place!

Table of Contents

1. What is the WordPress Block Editor?
2. Why Should You Use Gutenberg?
3. Getting Started: Basic Functions
4. Advanced Techniques for Mastery
5. Additional Resources and Tools
6. Conclusion

1. What is the WordPress Block Editor?

The WordPress Block Editor, Gutenberg, was named after Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press. Instead of using a single editor field, Gutenberg uses multiple blocks to create rich content. Each block can represent different elements like paragraphs, images, videos, and more.

Key Features:

• Blocks for Everything: Whether it’s text, images, quotes, or even widgets, there’s a block available.
• Visual Editing: See the changes you make in real-time without needing to preview your content.
• Customization: Each block can be tweaked and customized in various ways, providing flexibility in design.

Discover more about Gutenberg on the official WordPress website!

2. Why Should You Use Gutenberg?

Enhanced Flexibility

Instead of being confined to a traditional editor, you can arrange, design, and layout your content in blocks.

Mobile Optimization

Gutenberg’s design is responsive. This ensures that content looks stunning across all devices.

Third-party Integration

Many plugin developers have designed blocks specifically for Gutenberg, ensuring that there’s likely a block for any functionality you can think of.

Here’s a comparison between Classic Editor & Gutenberg.

3. Getting Started: Basic Functions

a. Adding a New Block

Click on the ‘+’ icon, usually found at the top left corner or in-between existing blocks, to add a new block. A menu will appear, showcasing various block options.

b. Moving Blocks

Hover over the block you want to move, and you’ll notice up/down arrows. Use them to move the block up or down.

c. Customizing Blocks

Every block has unique settings available in the right sidebar. For instance, for a text block, you can adjust typography, color, and more.

Beginner’s Guide to Using Gutenberg Blocks

4. Advanced Techniques for Mastery

a. Reusable Blocks

If you have a block (or a set of blocks) you frequently use, you can save it as a reusable block. This way, you don’t need to recreate it each time.

b. Grouping Blocks

To group multiple blocks, simply select the blocks you want to group, right-click, and choose the ‘Group’ option.

c. Custom CSS for Blocks

For design enthusiasts, Gutenberg allows you to add custom CSS classes to individual blocks, giving you full control over its appearance.

Advanced Gutenberg Tips and Tricks

5. Additional Resources and Tools

• Block Directory: Explore the official WordPress block directory for various additional blocks.
• Gutenberg Courses: Websites like Udemy offer comprehensive courses on mastering Gutenberg.
• Themes for Gutenberg: Some themes are specifically designed to work seamlessly with Gutenberg. Explore them on the WordPress theme repository.

6. Conclusion

The WordPress Block Editor, though initially met with mixed reactions, has transformed the way we think about content creation in WordPress. With a plethora of blocks and endless customization opportunities, Gutenberg empowers users to create visually appealing and functional content with ease. So dive in, play around, and discover the potential of what you can craft!

Happy WordPressing!