WordPress Editor – Tips, Plugins & Best Practices

Key highlights

• The WordPress editor is the core tool for creating and managing content on your website. 
• The Classic editor provides a text-based experience, while the Gutenberg (block) editor offers a modern, block-based approach. 
• Formatting content with proper headings, lists and multimedia improves readability and engagement. 
• Plugins like Elementor, TinyMCE Advanced, Spectra, Ultimate Blocks and Tableberg extend the capabilities of the WordPress editor. 
• Fast website performance and strong security measures are crucial for smooth editing.

Introduction

The first step of building a visually appealing website is designing, arranging and managing the content. Whether you are a blogger, business owner or eCommerce player, your site’s landing page, blogs and product category pages must be aligned in a way that attracts the audience. As a website owner, you might struggle with formatting inconsistencies, slow content workflows and limited customization options when managing your website. This is where a powerful editor comes into play. 

Among various content management tools, the WordPress editor stands out for its user-friendly interface and powerful block-based design. It allows you to create professional-looking and engaging pages and posts without needing advanced coding skills. 

In this blog, we’ll decode everything about the WordPress editor, its powerful plugins and best practices to streamline your workflow. 

Say goodbye to formatting frustrations and hello to beautifully crafted, SEO-friendly posts. Let’s dive in!

What is WordPress editor

WordPress editor is an integrated, user-friendly tool to help you create, edit and manage content such as blog posts, web pages and images on your website. 

Every piece of content within the editor is referred to as “block” that provides flexibility and precise customization. The block-based approach allows you to independently edit or rearrange individual sections without affecting other parts of your page or post. 

Classic editor vs. Gutenberg editor

WordPress block editor offers two versions: traditional and modern, allowing you to select the editor that best suit your business requirements and personal preference. 

Classic editor 

The classic editor is a traditional WordPress content editor, resembling a basic word processor like Microsoft Word. It features a simple text box where users can format content using a toolbar with options for bold, italics, links and other styling elements. 

Key features: 

• Familiar interface, like traditional word processors 
• Uses a single text box for content editing 
• Requires shortcodes or HTML for advanced formatting 
• Supports plugins like TinyMCE Advanced for additional customization 
• Preferred by users who want a straightforward, minimalistic editing experience 

Gutenberg editor (block editor) 

Introduced in WordPress 5.0, the Gutenberg editor replaces the single text box with a block-based approach. Every piece content including text, images, videos or buttons, is treated as a separate block, allowing greater flexibility and control. 

Key features: 

• Drag-and-drop functionality for easy content structuring 
• Individual content blocks for text, images, headings, buttons and embeds 
• Reusable blocks to streamline content creation and maintain consistency 
• Live preview editing to view the changes in real-time 
• Seamless integration with modern design trends and responsive layouts 

While the classic editor is great for those who prefer a traditional editing, the Gutenberg custom blocks offer a more dynamic and visual approach to content creation. The choice depends on your workflow and the level of customization you need. 

Also read: How To Create Gutenberg Custom Blocks

Essential tips for using the WordPress editor effectively

Whether you’re using the classic editor or the Gutenberg editor, optimizing your workflow can significantly improve your content creation process. Here are the best WordPress editing tips to make the most of the editor and design your dream website:

Improve content formatting

Well-structured content enhances readability and engagement. Use the following formatting tips to create visually appealing posts: 

• Utilize headings (H2, H3, H4, etc.) to break up long sections and improve readability 
• Use numbered and bullet-form lists to organize information effectively 
• Add images and videos to make the content engaging 
• Keep key information above the fold to capture attention quickly 
• Use clear, action-driven headlines that convey value instantly 
• Incorporate contrasting CTA buttons with persuasive copy to drive conversions

Boost readability and SEO

SEO-friendly content not only ranks better on search engines but also keeps readers engaged. Follow these best practices: 

• Use SEO-friendly URLs, meta descriptions and alt text for images
• Add internal linking for visitors to other relevant information on your site 
• Integrate external links of resourceful and authoritative websites to build credibility
• Incorporate keywords naturally without overstuffing for better readability 
• Add structured, listicle FAQs for snippet optimization and improved search engine visibility 

Save time with reusable blocks & templates

If you tend to use similar layout and design elements on your website, using reusable blocks & templates can speed up your workflow: 

• Save customized blocks (such as call-to-action sections, author bios or testimonials) for future use 
• Use block patterns to quickly apply pre-designed content layouts 
• Create and manage page templates for consistent formatting across multiple posts 
• Take advantage of third-party plugins like Spectra to enhance Gutenberg’s functionality with additional block options

Which are the best WordPress editor plugins

Powerful plugins can help improve content creation, formatting, SEO and overall workflow to enhance the functionality of a WordPress editor. Here is a quick comparison table to help you decide which WordPress editor plugin is suitable for your website: 

Plugin	Editor type	Customization level	Ease of use	Best for	Pricing
WonderBlocks	Block-based (Gutenberg enhancement)	High (pre-designed block patterns)	Easy	Quick website customization with prebuilt designs	Included with Bluehost
Elementor	Drag-and-drop page builder	Very high (full design flexibility)	Moderate to Easy	Complete website design control without coding	Freemium (paid plans for advanced features)
TinyMCE Advanced	Classic editor enhancement	Moderate (classic editor toolbar enhancements)	Easy	Enhancing the classic WordPress editor	Free
Spectra	Block-based (Gutenberg enhancement)	High (additional Gutenberg blocks)	Easy	Expanding Gutenberg functionality	Freemium (paid plans for advanced features)
Ultimate Blocks	Block-based (Gutenberg enhancement)	High (customizable Gutenberg blocks)	Easy	Improving Gutenberg with advanced content blocks	Free
Tableberg	Table creation for Gutenberg	Low (table-specific customization)	Easy	Creating and managing tables in Gutenberg	Free

Choosing the right WordPress eCommerce theme depends on your business needs, design preferences and performance expectations. 

Here is a deeper understanding of the best WordPress plugins for editing:

1. Elementor

Elementor is a popular drag-and-drop page builder that enables you to add unique designs without coding. It integrates seamlessly with the block editor and provides advanced styling options, custom widgets and responsive design controls. 

Key features: 

• Real-time drag-and-drop editing 
• Pre-designed templates and widgets 
• Mobile-responsive customization 
• Seamless integration with WordPress themes 

2. TinyMCE Advanced 

If you prefer the classic editor, TinyMCE Advanced is an ideal fit as it brings extra formatting options, custom toolbars and improved text editing capabilities. 

Key Features: 

• Extended formatting and styling options 
• Customizable toolbar buttons 
• Supports table creation and management 
• Improved copy-pasting from external sources 

3. Spectra 

Spectra extends the capabilities of the Gutenberg editor by providing additional block elements, layouts and design features to create more engaging content. 

Key Features: 

• Advanced Gutenberg blocks such as testimonials, pricing tables and call-to-action buttons 
• Pre-designed templates and block patterns 
• Performance-optimized plugin for faster page loading 

4. Ultimate Blocks 

Ultimate Blocks is an all-in-one Gutenberg editor plugin that helps you improve your website content with minimal effort. This plugin includes 26 blocks so you can build blog posts that resonate with your audience. 

Key Features: 

• Easy-to-use for those familiar with core blocks 
• Speed optimization to deliver powerful performance
• Schema markup integration and SEO-optimized 

5. Tableberg 

Tableberg WordPress editor plugin helps design visually appealing and fully customized tables for your website. You can build with sub-blocks and patterns without any technical know-how. 

Key Features: 

• Pre-built table templates for a jumpstart
• Easy-to-use colors, layouts and fonts to match your brand 
• Adaptable to all screen sizes 
• Free and Pro plan options to suit your requirements 

What are the best practices for seamless WordPress editing 

Follow these best practices for WordPress content creation to streamline your editing process and keep your website performing at its best: 

1. Speed & performance optimization tips 

A fast website improves user experience and improves search engine rankings. Here’s how you can optimize performance within the WordPress editor: 

• Use lightweight themes and avoid complex page builders that slow down the loading speed. 
• Optimize images by compressing them with WordPress tools like Smush or ShortPixel. 
• Minimize the use of unnecessary plugins to keep your site running efficiently.
• Implement caching solutions (such as WP Rocket or W3 Total Cache) to reduce server load.
• Choose a reliable hosting provider that ensures fast load times and robust performance. 

A reliable hosting provider plays a crucial role in website speed and can significantly improve performance. This is where Bluehost WordPress hosting stands out. With built-in caching, optimized servers and CDN integration, Bluehost ensures your site loads quickly and smoothly, providing a seamless experience for you and your visitors. 

2. Regular updates & security 

Keeping your WordPress site secure and up to date is crucial for overall performance. Here is how you can easily secure your website: 

• Regularly update WordPress core, themes and plugins to prevent security vulnerabilities 
• Enable automatic updates so your site always runs on the latest versions 
• Use strong passwords and implement two-factor authentication (2FA) for additional security 
• Install a security plugin like Wordfence or Sucuri to monitor threats and prevent attacks 
• Perform regular backups to protect your content and recover data if needed 

With Bluehost, your site is automatically updated to the latest WordPress version, ensuring security patches are always in place. Additionally, free daily backups ensure that you can instantly restore your data, if needed. 

3. Professional layout with pre-designed block patterns 

Manually building a website can be time-consuming and challenging. Instead of designing everything from scratch, use ready-made block patterns and templates for a streamlined and efficient website-building process. Here’s how these blocks help you create a professional website with minimal effort: 

• Change colors, images, fonts and texts with an easy drag-and-drop interface. 
• Use standardized elements like headers and footers to maintain design consistency. 
• Optimize content with proper headings, spacings and bullet points for better engagement. 
• Choose from a trusted library of block patterns and page templates to speed up the process. 

With WonderBlocks, a comprehensive library of pre-designed block patterns, you can quickly customize your website. The feature integrates seamlessly with the Gutenberg editor, allowing you to design professional layouts with minimal effort. 

WonderBlocks is a part of WonderSuite, an AI-powered WordPress platform that simplifies your website creation and management process. Whether you want to create an online selling platform, a blogging site or a professional website, WonderSuite provides a comprehensive solution tailored to your requirements. If you choose a Bluehost web hosting plan, you get free access to WonderSuite without any hidden fees. 

Final thoughts

Mastering the WordPress editor is key to creating well-formatted, engaging and SEO-friendly website. A good understanding of the classic editor and the Gutenberg editor helps you simplify the entire process. While the classic editor is a traditional choice for many WordPress websites, the Gutenberg fits well for a modern approach. 

Additionally, ensuring speed, performance and security is crucial for maintaining an overall seamless website experience. This is where Bluehost WordPress hosting proves to be a reliable partner. With optimized performance, built-in caching and free backups, Bluehost allows you to focus on creating great content without technical concerns. 

Ready to enhance your WordPress editing experience? Start with Bluehost hosting solution and watch your website thrive! 

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