Charles Gnilka's Blog » WordPress

Upgrade to WordPress 2.7

charles — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:56:34 +0000

I just upgraded my blog to WordPress 2.7. This new version of WordPress is the best upgrade I have seen so far. The dashboard is much cleaner and easier to use. I’m using the QuickPress Window to write this post.

Here’s some video showing the new features in WordPress 2.7.

WordPress design and layout

charles — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 13:02:14 +0000

Now that I have WordPress up and running, I want to change the look and feel of my blog. The Kubrick template is nice and clean, but I want my own personalized look.

I found the WordPress site features a docs section covering design and layout.

In the support section, there is forum offering reviews and feedback on blog designs.

As always, be careful to know what you are doing before tinkering with your blog code. If you do not know anything about using CSS, start with the CSS tutorial on W3Schools.

Handy resources for setting up WordPress

charles — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 17:39:19 +0000

Once you have installed your WordPress blog, fine-tuning your setup from the start will allow you get blogging with fewer glitches.

Here are some resources and tips I found helpful.

Download Squad features a post-install checklist. Going through this checklist will show you where all the features are located.
When you read through the Download Squad checklist, take note of item #10 on permalinks. Permalinks can be configured to be more pleasing, but permalinks alone will not influence your search engine rankings. You need content to do that. You can find more on permalinks on this page.
Get familiar with the writing interface on a few disposable test posts. Familiarity with the interface will make your writing easier. Tinkering with settings while trying to write breaks your focus.
If you change your blog’s URI under the options tab to the wrong address, your blog directory starts looking in the wrong place. Getting back to the dashboard is impossible. To reset your WordPress URI, use this PHP script. Even if you have not broken your URI, keep this script handy just in case. It is like having a second pair of keys to your house. Always use caution if you are going to change any major setting to your blog. If you do not fully know what you are doing, do not mess with it. A good browse through the WordPress Docs page is recommended too.
If you are using Mozilla Firefox and have the NoScript plug-in, make sure you add your blog’s URL to the allow list, or your blog dashboard will be missing key features.

If you have any WordPress tips, post a comment and let me know.