Easy Beginners Guide to WordPress Theme Customization

WordPress is one of the most used platforms to develop websites. It is exceptionally easy to use and versatile, users can apply it to create everything starting with a blog and ending with an extended e-commerce site. The thing that I like about WordPress most is the possibility of altering the themes so that you get a distinct look for your website. If you are a beginner, this guide will assist you with all the knowledge you will need for your WordPress theme customization in easy and basic methods.

What Is a WordPress Theme?

WordPress theme simply refers to a set of templates and style sheets that determine the outlook of your website. It determines items such as font type, color, positioning and style of widgets to be used. What makes WordPress convenient is that it has thousands of free and paid themes so you can select the one appropriate for your site.

Step 1: Choose the Right Theme

The first area of customization of a WordPress site is the option to choose a theme. Here�s how to do it:

i. WordPress dashboard can be accessed by you after logging into your WordPress site.

ii. Go to Appearance > Themes.

iii. Click Add New to view the currently available themes.

iv. You can see the themes that are �Popular� or �Featured� to choose a theme of your preference.

v. There is a checkbox near each theme, to preview it, simply select the desired theme and click on it again to activate it on your site.

Select a theme that will be relevant to your site�s objective and contain the necessary features. If you intend to blog, it is important to choose a blogging theme.

Step 2: Customize Your Theme

After activation, customization can start. WordPress has a built-in customization tool that makes this easy.

i. Proceed to Appearance > Customize in the dashboard.

ii. This will open the WordPress Customizer, where you can make changes and see a live preview.

Common customization options include:

i. Site Identity: Include site title, tag line and logo.

ii. Colors: You need to change the colors of your corporate identity.

iii. Header and Background: Change the header image and/or background color/image.

iv. Menus: Designate drop-down menus to guide visitors through your website.

v. Widgets: Add widgets such as search bars, link to recent posts, or provide social media links.

vi. To save your changes, click on Publish.

Step 3: Add Plugins for More Features

These are tools that extend the functionality of your WordPress site. You can add contact forms, SEO tools, or social media integrations, for example.

To install a plugin:

i. Go to Plugins > Add New.

ii. Type the name of the plugin you want on the search bar.

iii. Then, click on the Install Now button, followed by the Activate button.

Popular plugins for customization include:

i. Elementor: A drag-and-drop page builder.

ii. Yoast SEO: Enhances your site�s position on the SERPs and can help uncover opportunities that are otherwise hidden.

iii. Smash Balloon Social Photo Feed: Displays your Instagram feed.

iv. WooCommerce: Enables e-commerce capability.

Step 4: Edit Code (Optional)

For further customization, you are allowed to change the code of the theme that you have chosen. This step will need some basic understanding of HTML, CSS and PHP language. It is recommended to always make a backup of the website before laying your hands on the site�s code.

i. Go to Appearance > Theme Editor.

ii. Select the file you want to edit, e.g., style.css for design changes, and header.php for changes in headers.

iii. Change it carefully and save it.

If you're not that comfortable with the code, then try a child theme. A child theme allows you to customize without any effect on the original theme files, thus making it safer for updates.

Step 5: Testing the Website

Once you have customized your theme, it is time to test your website. Check out the following:

i. Responsiveness - Is your site mobile responsive?

ii. Speed - Does your site load fast enough?

iii. Functionality - Are your links, buttons, and forms working?

You can use the various free tools available, such as GTmetrix or Google's Mobile-Friendly Test, to check for web performance.

Step 6: Always Update Your Theme

Themes and plugins have updates and fixes for bugs, performance improvement, and new features. Updating your theme makes it better for security and functionality.

i. Go to Dashboard > Updates.

ii. Check for your theme if it needs an update.

iii. Click Update Now to install the new version.

Important Strategies for Customization

i. Start Simple: Do not attempt to make too many changes at a given time. In the first instance, it is advisable to identify and concentrate on basic settings.

ii. Use High-Quality Images: Images add beauty to your site.

iii. Maintain Uniformity: Have a matching color palette, font style, and layout.

Iv. Preview Changes: Always preview your edits before publication.

v. Seek Help When Needed: If you have issues with the WordPress website, then consider using the forums, tutorials, or get professional assistance.

Conclusion

As a beginner, learning how to customize a WordPress theme might seem initially difficult but with time and patience it will become easy. If you follow these guidelines, you will elegantly design your website in a way that will suit you. WordPress stands as the platform well equipped with the features required in erecting a blog, portfolio or even an online store depending on the vision of the intended designer/developer.