What is WordPress full site editing and how does it work?
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Understanding WordPress full site editing: features and benefits explained
WordPress has long been a favourite among website builders, powering over 40% of all websites on the internet. Known for its user-friendly interface and extensive customisation options, WordPress has enabled millions of users to create and manage their own websites with ease.
One of its latest innovations is Full Site Editing (FSE), a powerful feature that allows users to design and customise their entire website using a block-based system. This means you can now modify not just the content of your pages and posts, but also the layout and design of your headers, footers, and everything in between, all within a single, cohesive interface.
The purpose of this article is to explain Full Site Editing. We will explore what FSE is, how it works, and why it’s a significant update for both new and experienced WordPress users. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just getting started, understanding FSE will open up new possibilities for your website design and management.
Definition of Full Site Editing
Full Site Editing (FSE) is a feature in WordPress that allows users to create and customise their entire website using blocks. Traditionally, blocks were used only for content within posts and pages. With FSE, these blocks can now be applied to all parts of a website, including headers, footers, and sidebars, providing a unified and flexible design experience.
Historical context: how WordPress has evolved to include FSE
WordPress has always focused on ease of use and customisation. Initially, users relied on themes and plugins to control the appearance and functionality of their websites. In 2018, WordPress introduced the Gutenberg editor, a block-based editor that revolutionised content creation by allowing users to build pages with drag-and-drop blocks.
Building on this concept, Full Site Editing was introduced to extend the block-based approach beyond individual pages and posts to the entire site. This evolution reflects WordPress’s commitment to providing a more integrated and user-friendly design experience, allowing users to have greater control over their website’s look and feel.
Historical context: how WordPress has evolved to include FSE
WordPress has always focused on ease of use and customisation. Initially, users relied on themes and plugins to control the appearance and functionality of their websites. In 2018, WordPress introduced the Gutenberg editor, a block-based editor that revolutionised content creation by allowing users to build pages with drag-and-drop blocks.
Building on this concept, Full Site Editing was introduced to extend the block-based approach beyond individual pages and posts to the entire site. This evolution reflects WordPress’s commitment to providing a more integrated and user-friendly design experience, allowing users to have greater control over their website’s look and feel.
Importance of FSE in modern web design
Full Site Editing represents a significant shift in how websites are designed and managed. By using blocks for every part of a website, FSE allows for more consistent and cohesive design. This means users can easily create a unified look across their entire site without needing to switch between different editing interfaces.
FSE also simplifies the design process. Users can visually build and edit their website in real-time, seeing exactly how changes will look as they make them. This makes the design process more intuitive and accessible, even for those with limited technical skills.
In modern web design, flexibility and customisation are crucial. Full Site Editing provides the tools needed to create unique, personalised websites that meet the specific needs and preferences of users, making it a valuable addition to the WordPress ecosystem.
Key features of full site editing
Site Editor
The Site Editor is a central component of Full Site Editing in WordPress. It provides a unified interface where users can design and manage their entire website. Through the Site Editor, you can edit headers, footers, sidebars, and other global elements, all using the same block-based approach as for posts and pages. This tool streamlines the design process, allowing you to see your changes in real-time and ensure a consistent look and feel across your site.
Template Editor
The Template Editor is a specific part of the Site Editor focused on creating and managing templates. Templates are pre-designed layouts that determine how certain types of content, such as blog posts or pages, are displayed. Unlike the Site Editor, which manages overall site design, the Template Editor allows you to create custom templates for different content types. This means you can have a unique design for your homepage, blog posts, and other sections of your site, all while maintaining a cohesive overall look.
Block Editor
The Block Editor is at the heart of Full Site Editing. Originally introduced as the Gutenberg editor, it allows users to build content with drag-and-drop blocks. In FSE, the Block Editor’s role has expanded to cover the entire site, enabling you to create and customise all elements using blocks. Each block represents a different piece of content or functionality, such as text, images, or buttons, which can be easily rearranged and styled. This approach makes the design process more flexible and user-friendly.
Global Styles
Global Styles is a feature that allows you to define and apply consistent styles across your entire site. With Global Styles, you can set the colours, fonts, and other design elements that will be used throughout your website. This ensures a uniform appearance and saves time, as you don’t need to manually adjust the styles for each individual block or page. Changes made in Global Styles are reflected site-wide, providing an efficient way to maintain a cohesive design.
Query Loop Block
The Query Loop Block is a powerful tool that allows you to display dynamic content based on specific criteria. For example, you can use it to show a list of recent blog posts, a selection of products, or a gallery of images. The Query Loop Block pulls in content that matches your specified criteria and displays it in a predefined layout. This is particularly useful for creating dynamic sections on your site, such as blog feeds or product listings, without needing to manually update the content. It adds a layer of automation and efficiency to the design process, ensuring your site stays up-to-date with minimal effort.
How full site editing works
Overview of the block-based approach
Full Site Editing (FSE) in WordPress is built on a block-based approach, where every element of a website is constructed using blocks. Blocks are modular pieces of content or functionality, such as text, images, buttons, and widgets, that can be easily added, rearranged, and customised. This approach allows users to design and build their websites in a visual and intuitive manner, providing flexibility and control over every part of the site.
Creating and editing templates
Step-by-step guide on creating and customising templates:
Access the template editor: From the WordPress dashboard, navigate to “Appearance” and select “Editor (Beta).” This opens the Site Editor interface.
Create a new template: Click on the template section and choose “Add New” to create a new template. You can start with a blank template or choose a pre-designed one as a starting point.
Add and arrange blocks: Use the Block Editor to add blocks to your template. For example, you can add a header block, a content block, and a footer block. Arrange these blocks in the desired layout.
Customise block settings: Click on each block to access its settings. Here, you can adjust the block’s appearance, such as changing colours, fonts, and sizes. You can also configure any specific functionalities, like adding links or media.
Save and apply the template: Once you are satisfied with your design, save the template. You can then apply this template to specific pages or post types, ensuring a consistent look across similar content.
Customising global styles
How to use global styles to maintain consistency across the site:
Access global styles: In the Site Editor, look for the Global Styles icon (usually represented by a half-filled circle) and click on it to open the Global Styles panel.
Set base styles: Define the base styles for your site, such as typography, colours, and spacing. For example, you can choose a primary colour that will be used for links and buttons, or set a default font for all headings and body text.
Customise block styles: You can also customise the styles for individual blocks. For instance, you might set a specific background colour for the header block or adjust the padding for the paragraph block.
Apply changes: Any changes made in the Global Styles panel are applied site-wide. This ensures that all blocks and templates adhere to the same design principles, maintaining visual consistency throughout your website.
Using the query loop block
Practical examples of using the Query Loop Block to display dynamic content:
Add a query loop block: In the Block Editor, search for the “Query Loop” block and add it to your template or page.
Configure query settings: Click on the Query Loop Block to configure its settings. You can specify the type of content you want to display, such as recent posts, products, or portfolio items. Set filters like categories, tags, or custom post types to refine the query.
Choose a layout: Select a layout for the displayed content. WordPress provides several pre-designed layouts, such as grids, lists, or carousels. Choose the one that best fits your design needs.
Customise the display: Customise how each item in the query loop is displayed. You can add blocks within the Query Loop Block to control the content’s structure, such as adding an image block followed by a title block and an excerpt block.
Save and preview: Save your changes and preview the page to see how the dynamic content is displayed. The Query Loop Block will automatically update with new content that matches the specified criteria, keeping your site current without manual updates.
By following these steps, you can effectively use Full Site Editing to create a dynamic, visually consistent, and easily manageable WordPress website.
Benefits of using full site editing
Increased flexibility and control
Full Site Editing (FSE) provides users with greater flexibility and control over their website’s design. With FSE, every part of a website can be customised using blocks, allowing for highly personalised and unique layouts. Users are no longer limited by pre-defined theme structures and can freely arrange and style headers, footers, sidebars, and other global elements. This level of customisation ensures that your website can truly reflect your brand’s identity and meet specific design needs.
Improved user experience
FSE enhances the user experience for both developers and end-users. For developers, the block-based approach simplifies the process of designing and managing websites, reducing the need for custom code. This makes it easier to create visually appealing and functional websites without extensive technical knowledge. For end-users, the consistency and coherence provided by FSE result in a more intuitive and seamless browsing experience. The ability to see changes in real-time also means that users can quickly and easily make adjustments, improving the overall quality and usability of the site.
Streamlined workflow
The unified interface of FSE streamlines the website building process. By consolidating the tools needed to design and manage a website into a single, cohesive environment, FSE reduces the complexity of website development. Users no longer need to switch between different editors or rely on multiple plugins to achieve their desired design. This integrated approach saves time and effort, allowing users to focus more on creating content and less on managing technical details. The result is a more efficient workflow that can help bring websites to life faster and with fewer obstacles.
Challenges and limitations of full site editing
Learning curve
One of the main challenges of Full Site Editing (FSE) is the initial learning curve for new users. While the block-based approach is intuitive, it can be overwhelming for those who are accustomed to the classic WordPress editor or traditional theme-based design. Understanding how to effectively use blocks, templates, and global styles requires time and practice. New users might find themselves needing to explore tutorials, documentation, and community forums to fully grasp the capabilities and nuances of FSE. Patience and a willingness to learn are essential to overcome this initial hurdle.
Compatibility issues
FSE may also present compatibility issues with older themes and plugins. Many themes and plugins were developed before the introduction of FSE and may not be fully compatible with the new system. This can lead to unexpected behaviour or functionality problems on your website. For instance, older themes might not support the block-based design approach, resulting in design inconsistencies or limited customisation options. To mitigate these issues, it’s important to choose themes and plugins that are explicitly designed to work with FSE. Additionally, regular updates and consultations with theme and plugin developers can help ensure ongoing compatibility.
Performance considerations
The use of blocks and the extensive customisation options in FSE can impact website performance. More complex layouts and numerous blocks can increase page load times, which can negatively affect the user experience. To mitigate these performance issues, consider the following strategies:
Optimise images and media: Use compressed images and media files to reduce load times.
Utilise caching: Implement caching solutions to improve page loading speed.
Minimise block usage: Use only the necessary blocks to achieve your design goals and avoid overloading pages with too many elements.
Regular performance testing: Conduct regular performance tests to identify and address any issues that may arise as you continue to develop and customise your site.
By being aware of these challenges and actively working to address them, users can effectively leverage Full Site Editing to create dynamic and visually appealing websites while maintaining optimal performance.
Tips for getting started with full site editing
Choosing the right theme
When starting with Full Site Editing (FSE), selecting a theme that supports FSE is crucial. Look for themes that are specifically designed for FSE, as they will offer the best compatibility and the most features. These themes are often labelled as “block-based” or “FSE-ready.” They come with pre-designed templates and styles that take full advantage of FSE capabilities, making it easier to customise your site without running into compatibility issues. Some popular FSE-ready themes include Twenty Twenty-One Blocks and Blocksy.
Experimenting with blocks
One of the best ways to get comfortable with FSE is to experiment with different blocks and settings. Spend time exploring the various blocks available in the Block Editor, such as text, images, buttons, and widgets. Try out different layouts and see how blocks can be arranged and styled to create unique designs. Don’t be afraid to play around with the settings for each block to see how changes affect the appearance and functionality of your site. This hands-on approach will help you understand the flexibility of FSE and discover creative ways to build your website.
Utilising tutorials and resources
To accelerate your learning and make the most of FSE, take advantage of the many tutorials, courses, and resources available online. Here are a few recommendations:
WordPress.org Documentation: The official WordPress website offers comprehensive guides and documentation on FSE. It’s a great place to start for foundational knowledge.
YouTube Tutorials: There are many YouTube channels dedicated to WordPress tutorials. Search for FSE tutorials to find step-by-step video guides.
Online Courses: Websites like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on WordPress and FSE, which can provide structured learning paths.
Community Forums: Engage with the WordPress community through forums like the WordPress Support Forum or Reddit’s r/WordPress. These platforms are valuable for asking questions, sharing experiences, and learning from others.
FAQs: WordPress Full Site Editing
What is WordPress full site editing?
WordPress full site editing (FSE) allows you to design and edit all parts of your website using blocks within the Gutenberg editor.
How does WordPress full site editing differ from the traditional editor?
WordPress full site editing lets you modify the entire site’s structure and design with blocks, unlike the traditional editor which focuses on posts and pages.
What are the benefits of using WordPress full site editing?
WordPress full site editing offers greater customization, a unified editing experience, and the ability to use blocks for all site elements.
Do I need a specific theme for WordPress full site editing?
Yes, you need a block theme that supports WordPress full site editing.
How do I enable WordPress full site editing?
WordPress full site editing is enabled by default in WordPress 5.8 and later with a compatible block theme. Access it via the Site Editor in the dashboard.
Can I switch back to the traditional editor after using WordPress full site editing?
Yes, you can switch back by using a non-FSE theme, though some changes made with WordPress full site editing may not be compatible.
Is WordPress full site editing suitable for beginners?
WordPress full site editing can be complex initially but offers powerful customization tools. Beginners can benefit from its flexibility with some learning.
What are block patterns in WordPress full site editing?
Block patterns in WordPress full site editing are pre-designed collections of blocks for quickly creating complex layouts.
Can I use third-party blocks with WordPress full site editing?
Yes, third-party blocks from compatible plugins can be used with WordPress full site editing.
Where can I learn more about using WordPress full site editing?
You can learn more about using WordPress full site editing in the WordPress documentation, tutorials, and community forums.
What is a block theme in WordPress full site editing?
A block theme in WordPress full site editing is a theme designed to fully support the capabilities of FSE, allowing block-based design across the entire site.
How does WordPress full site editing impact theme development?
WordPress full site editing changes theme development by encouraging block-based design, making themes more flexible and customizable.
What are template parts in WordPress full site editing?
Template parts in WordPress full site editing are sections of a template that can be reused across multiple templates, like headers or footers.
How do I create a custom header with WordPress full site editing?
You can create a custom header with WordPress full site editing by using the Site Editor to add and customize a header block within your template.
Can I edit my site’s footer with WordPress full site editing?
Yes, you can fully customize your site’s footer using blocks in WordPress full site editing.
What is the Site Editor in WordPress full site editing?
The Site Editor in WordPress full site editing is the interface where you can manage and customize all aspects of your site using blocks.
Are there any limitations to WordPress full site editing?
WordPress full site editing is powerful but still evolving, so it may lack some advanced customization features found in traditional themes.
How do global styles work in WordPress full site editing?
Global styles in WordPress full site editing allow you to set consistent styling (like colours and fonts) across your entire site from a single location.
Can I use WordPress full site editing for e-commerce sites?
Yes, you can use WordPress full site editing for e-commerce sites, but ensure your e-commerce theme supports FSE and your plugins are compatible.
How does WordPress full site editing affect performance?
WordPress full site editing can improve performance by reducing the need for multiple plugins and simplifying the design process through blocks. However, excessive use of blocks might impact load times, so optimize accordingly.
WordPress itself
Official Website
wordpress.org – This is the official website for WordPress, where you can download the software, find documentation, and learn more about using it.
WordPress Codex
codex.wordpress.org/Main_Page – This is a comprehensive documentation resource for WordPress, covering everything from installation and configuration to specific functionality and troubleshooting.
WordPress Theme Directory
wordpress.org/themes – The official WordPress theme directory is a great place to find free and premium WordPress themes. You can browse themes by category, feature, and popularity.
maxiblocks.com/go/help-desk
maxiblocks.com/pro-library
www.youtube.com/@maxiblocks
twitter.com/maxiblocks
linkedin.com/company/maxi-blocks
github.com/orgs/maxi-blocks
wordpress.org/plugins/maxi-blocks
FSE offers increased flexibility and control over your website design, a streamlined workflow by consolidating design tools into one interface, and an improved user experience through real-time editing and consistent design elements across the site.