How to Add Widget to WordPress

The popularity of WordPress in content management systems is getting higher than we have ever imagined. Due to its flexibility, you can use WordPress as a blog or it can be used as a platform for a website. Whichever way you look at it, WordPress has shown that it means business and it looks set to conquer the world of content management systems. WordPress defining features include ease of use, search engine optimization, site navigation and content widgets are just a few of its incredible features. No wonder top organizations are now using it. An example is the CBS New York.

Adding widgets to your wordpress is not as difficult as it sounds. The first thing is to go the admin menu on the left and click on the “Appearance” option. Doing this will open the appearance option where you can have the opportunity to change things such as the background, theme options, menus and widgets.

Secondly, you will have to select widget on the list of the options. It is important to state here that in cases where your blog is hosted on wordpress.com, your only choice will be to use the widgets which have been pre-installed for each of the blogs. However, hosting your WordPress on your own webhost will give you the option of searching through all available widgets for things like Amazon listing and more.

Thirdly, search for new menu by clicking on the search function that is within the widget menu. It is important to note that this step will only apply to users who use their own site to host WordPress. The option is actually not available to wordpress.com users. Search thoroughly until you find the plug in or widget you are looking for. At that point, click “install”. The widget will start installing and on completion, ensure you return to the widget main page so as to have the widget placed on your side bar.

Fourthly, this step is an easy drag and drop activity. Simply click the name of the widget you want to show in your side bar while dragging the icon under the “sidebar 2” or the “sidebar 1” heading. Remember the heading that is shown will actually depend on the layout you choose for your wordpress website or blog. Also note that only pre-installed widgets by wordpress is only available for wordpress.com users. Remember also that you can always find widgets for calendars, blog stats, Twitter, archives, recent posts and more.

Lastly, once you are okay with your choice, click on the “save” button. You can find it within the widget option menu. Note that some widgets will come with an additional option which will allow for more customizations. You are at liberty to make any necessary change to your widget until you are satisfied with the appearance.

As you can see from the above steps mentioned, adding widgets to your wordpress is very easy and can be done by anybody without actually looking for an external help. Take advantage of this tutorial and add a widget o your wordpress website today.