WordPress 101: Getting Started
In a matter of just a few short years…
Is WordPress right for you? Unless you have very specific needs, it will probably do the job. Before you dive headfirst into publication via WordPress, however, there are few things you’ll need to do. Here are your first steps toward getting started with WordPress.
First, get a grip on what WordPress is and how you can use it.
This basic “background research” will allow you to start developing a plan for your eventual site and can spare you a few headaches, as well. Luckily, there’s no shortage of information available on the web and you should be able to develop a solid understanding of the platform quickly and easily.
Second, if you’re planning on having a site that isn’t hosted by WordPress (and remember, the free blogs at WordPress are much more limited in terms of flexibility and purpose than self-hosted options), confirm that you’ll be able to use it in the first place on your host. While most hosts will handle a WordPress installation easily, there are some exceptions.
Make sure you host meets requirements, that you have access to the newest version of PHP and MySQL and that you know how to upload files to your host via FTP. You can generally resolve these questions by examining the information provided by your host as part of your account. In some cases, it will be even easier. Your host may very well offer easy, “one-click” WordPress installation.
Third, you’ll need to install WordPress. New users will appreciate hosts who make this nothing more than a simple point-and-click proposition. Others will have to work a little harder to effectuate and appropriate installation of the software. Consult the tutorials provided by both your host (if available) and WordPress to get the details of installation. If they don’t help you, a little online research should uncover a set of “do it yourself” instructions that will meet your needs.
Fourth, set up your WordPress blog based on the plan you’ve developed. Tweak settings to get the right “feel” for your blog and experiment with different options and settings. One of the nicest things about WordPress is its ease of use–and the fact that you can “undo” any changes you might make.
By digging in and adjusting the system and its settings, you’ll learn a great deal and will soon be on your way to becoming an expert WordPress user.
After you go through this four-step process, you’ll be able to elevate your efforts to a new level. You’ll be able to access WordPress’ even greater powers by uploading the perfect theme, plug-ins and making other adjustments.
WordPress is remarkably powerful and amazingly easy to use. Get started with the basics right away and position yourself to create a tremendous blog or website.
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