Introduction:
WordPress Block Editor, previously known as Gutenberg Editor, is a revolutionary change in the WordPress ecosystem. This new editor is designed to make the content creation process more intuitive and streamlined. With the Block Editor, content creators can easily build complex layouts and designs without the need for complex coding. In this handbook, we will explore everything you need to know about the WordPress Block Editor.
Chapter 1: Getting Started with the WordPress Block Editor
The WordPress Block Editor is now the default editor for WordPress. If you are using an older version of WordPress, you can install the Block Editor plugin to get started.
To get started with the Block Editor, simply create a new post or page in WordPress, and you will be taken to the Block Editor interface. The Block Editor is divided into three sections: the editing area, the block toolbar, and the settings sidebar.
Chapter 2: Understanding Blocks in WordPress Block Editor
Blocks are the building blocks of the WordPress Block Editor. Each block represents a piece of content, such as text, images, videos, and more. The Block Editor comes with several pre-built blocks, and you can also create your own custom blocks.
To add a block to your content, simply click the plus sign in the editing area, and select the block you want to add. You can then customize the block using the toolbar and the settings sidebar.
Chapter 3: Using the Toolbar in WordPress Block Editor
The toolbar in the WordPress Block Editor is located above the editing area. It contains several tools that allow you to customize your content, including:
- Block navigation: allows you to quickly navigate between blocks in your content.
- Block alignment: allows you to align blocks to the left, right, center, or full width.
- Block styling: allows you to add custom styles to your blocks, such as background colors and font sizes.
- Block settings: allows you to customize the settings of each block, such as text alignment, image size, and more.
Chapter 4: Using the Settings Sidebar in WordPress Block Editor
The settings sidebar in the WordPress Block Editor is located on the right side of the editing area. It contains several settings that allow you to customize your blocks, including:
- Block settings: allows you to customize the settings of each block, such as text alignment, image size, and more.
- Document settings: allows you to customize the settings of your entire document, such as the document title, featured image, and more.
- Block patterns: allows you to use pre-built block patterns to quickly create complex layouts and designs.
- Block styles: allows you to customize the styles of your blocks, such as font sizes, colors, and more.
Chapter 5: Creating Custom Blocks in WordPress Block Editor
The WordPress Block Editor allows you to create your own custom blocks using JavaScript and the Block API. With custom blocks, you can add complex functionality to your content, such as custom sliders, maps, and more.
To create a custom block, you will need to have some knowledge of JavaScript and the Block API. You can also use a block builder plugin, such as Block Lab or Gutenberg Blocks, to create custom blocks without writing any code.
Chapter 6: Using Block Plugins in WordPress Block Editor
Block plugins are plugins that add new blocks to the WordPress Block Editor. There are thousands of block plugins available in the WordPress plugin repository, and they allow you to add new functionality to your content without writing any code.
To install a block plugin, simply search for it in the WordPress plugin repository, and install and activate it. Once activated, the new blocks will be available in the Block Editor.
Chapter 7: Using Block Patterns in WordPress Block Editor
Block patterns are pre-built designs that you can use to quickly create complex layouts and designs in the WordPress Block Editor.
Block patterns
To use a block pattern, simply click the plus sign in the editing area, and select the “Patterns” tab. You can then browse the available block patterns and select the one you want to use. Once selected, the pattern will be added to your content, and you can customize it using the toolbar and settings sidebar.
Chapter 8: Tips and Tricks for Working with WordPress Block Editor
Here are some tips and tricks to help you work more efficiently with the WordPress Block Editor:
- Use keyboard shortcuts: The WordPress Block Editor has several keyboard shortcuts that can help you work more efficiently. For example, you can use Ctrl + Alt + T to add a new block, or Ctrl + Alt + Shift + M to switch between the visual and code editor.
- Use reusable blocks: Reusable blocks allow you to save a block as a template and reuse it throughout your website. To create a reusable block, simply select the block, and click the “Add to Reusable Blocks” button in the toolbar.
- Use the “Transform” feature: The “Transform” feature allows you to quickly convert one type of block to another. For example, you can convert a paragraph block to a heading block or a list block.
- Use block patterns: Block patterns can save you a lot of time when creating complex layouts and designs. You can also create your own custom block patterns to use across your website.
Conclusion:
The WordPress Block Editor is a powerful tool that can help you create complex layouts and designs without the need for complex coding. By understanding the basics of blocks, using the toolbar and settings sidebar, creating custom blocks, and using block plugins and patterns, you can take full advantage of the Block Editor and create stunning content for your website.