Here at Bluehost, we LOVE WordPress. It’s one of the best and easiest tools for creating a full-blown website. And we’re not the only ones who think so: over 50% of all new websites are built with it and over 14% of existing sites already use it!
What is WordPress?
WordPress began as a blogging tool, but it has evolved over time: now it’s a full-blown content management system (CMS), which means it lets you to build a website without having to learn HTML, CSS, Javascript, etc… Instead you just install WordPress on your Bluehost hosting account and log into an administrative “back-end” tool (or “Dashboard” as WordPress calls it). There you have several options and can upload pictures, add text, install free plugins, create pages, change the look and feel of the website, and more! WordPress handles all the complicated coding work for you so all you have to do is click publish.
How to Create a Website Using WordPress
As with any tool, it does take a few minutes to learn how to use it. When you create a website, WordPress has several customization options to help improve the functionality of your site. You can choose between different plugins like Yoast SEO and widgets to add features. Use our step-by-step guide and learn how to create a website using WordPress.
Our new WordPress Walkthrough series covers everything you need to know, from how to install it on your Bluehost hosting account to how to build real, functioning web pages.
We demonstrate how to:
- create a home page
- change the theme and appearance add a photo gallery
- make a static page
- upload a resume
- add a blog
- install and use plugins and widgets
- insert an image
- Add a contact form
- remove comments from pages
- and much more…
Below is an overview of what to expect in the article.
- Choose a Domain Name
- Set up a Hosting Account & Purchase a Hosting Plan
- Install WordPress
- Choose a WordPress Theme
- Learn Your WordPress Dashboard
- Create Pages
- Customize your website using plugins & other features
Step 1: Choosing a Domain Name
Your domain name is what people type into their browser to get to your website. Though it’s tempting to choose something funny or flashy, pick a domain that both represents your brand and makes it easy for people to find you.
For example, “bobsmithwelding.com” is better than “bobdoesmetalwork.com” because searchers that are looking for Bob by name or for welding services are more likely to find him. The decision to register your domain name will depend on your reasons for building the website.
One of the advantages of using a hosting service like Bluehost (which WordPress recommends) is that you can purchase your domain name and hosting service from the same provider. Simply type in your desired domain name, click on the “next” button, and the system will verify whether your choice is available. You can also choose an alternative top-level domain from the drop-down menu. For example, you may want .club or .us instead of .com.
Step 2: Set Up a Hosting Account and Purchase a Package
Once you have established your domain name, you’ll need to create an account for your hosting package. Enter your personal information into each field and then scroll down to the package lists (Basic, Plus, or Business Pro) and choose an option that fits your budget and service needs. Prices vary across hosting providers, but most offer add-ons, like extra security features, tools to boost search rankings, and site backup.
Check the appropriate boxes and scroll down to enter your billing information. Take a moment to read through the terms of service, cancellation policy, and privacy notices, then click the box to confirm that you agree with the policies. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a password and, boom, you are ready for step three: choosing your WordPress theme.
Step 3 & 4: Install WordPress & Choose a WordPress Theme
If you’ve chosen Bluehost as your web host, WordPress will be automatically installed for you. All you have to do is click, ‘Log in’ and choose a theme. if you aren’t sure which theme you want, don’t worry! You can go back and change it later. If you don’t like the generic themes, you can upgrade to one of the premium themes.
The next screen will ask if you are building your website for Personal or Business reasons. This will help us provide you with accurate recommendations to help with your website building journal.
Step 5: Learn Your WordPress Dashboard
Now that you are ready to start working, you should find yourself on the Dashboard, or the back-end, for your new website. This is the service area that allows you to control what your website visitors will see when they land on your pages. Spend some time learning this dashboard by reviewing features that you will use most often.
Let the fun begin! You are ready to start fine-tuning your site with your color choices, font styles, and special elements that will help you express your company culture or personality. You can dive right in and write your first post, but it’s beneficial to get to know the features and functionality of your site first.
On the left-hand sidebar, you’ll find navigation links that allow you to customize your site. The best way to get to know your way around is to click on each tab and explore the options.
- Browse the themes; there are paid and free options available.
- Customize your theme with colors, headers, and social media buttons.
- Upload photos to inspire your site visitors and add clues about your values and services.
- Create your first blog post and main page content.
- Add a contact form
Don’t forget to set up Google Analytics in order to collect data on visitors coming to your site and link Google Search Console to make sure there are no errors.
Additional Tips to Remember When Learning How to Use WordPress
- Create engaging content to your site appear in search engines
- Make sure you have the latest version of WordPress to get the full functionality of the CMS platform
- Link to your social media profiles
Bluehost is the #1 company of all WordPress recommended hosting providers. Our servers are optimized to host WordPress sites and our one-click installer makes it easy to get up and running in seconds. Still, to make it even easier for those new to WordPress, we’ve recently created a video series demonstrating how to use it, step-by-step, click-by-click, and uploaded it to our Bluehost YouTube channel. Check it out and let us know what you think!
