Themes
According to Digital Business Consultancy, "A theme will form a big part of how your blog looks, it’s important to get it right." [1] Picking a theme is not just about what is seen on the surface. When picking a theme, bloggers should be aware of all their options. After choosing a theme that fits the focus and desired layout of your blog, there are several attributes to consider within the theme. After considering all the options and making an informed decision, the application process is simple and straight-forward.
How to pick a theme
Picking the perfect theme for a blog is vital to the future success of that blog. A blogger must consider the way a theme will appear in a search engine. Keeping search engine optimization in mind when picking a theme will give web users a better first impression of that blog.
Another thing a blogger should consider when choosing a theme is the focus of the blog. For example if a blogger is working on a "How to" blog then they will want to pick a blog that is compatible with uploading pictures or video, a good example of a compatible theme for this kind of blog is a Molly Blog WP theme. If a blogger is looking for a theme that will support a lot of text then a Daily journal WP theme would be ideal because it adapts to any screen's size making it more scan-able and easy to read on any device. Picking a simple yet compatible theme is recommended for easy use in updating and to ensure that it will work with multiple browsers. Functionality is the key. Busy themes might look good, but they are hard to modify and not always compatible with every browser.
A custom theme is recommended if you want a little more design while still maintaining functionality. A free theme with a simple and professional looking design which can be easily modified is best when picking a theme, just be aware of the terms of service. Picking a free theme has its advantages but if its support a blogger is looking for then picking a commercial theme will give the support they are looking for with just a one-time fee involved. The main points to keep in mind when choosing a theme for your topic are, search engine optimization, compatibility with your industry or business, and functionality. Keeping these in mind will help any blogger pick a theme that is right for their topic to provide a successful starting point.
Widgets
Many, but not all, Wordpress themes allow for the use of widgets. All themes do not offer the same amount of widget space on a blog page. Depending on the nature of a blog, this can be problematic. When browsing through, read the details of themes that fit the style of your blog. Check that widgets are supported, how many are available, and where they may be placed.
Color & Background
Some themes offer the option of changing the color of various elements of the blog including the font and background. In some cases this may include changes in color palette. The ability to edit custom colors will be listed under "features" in the theme details.
Menus
Bloggers generally have two options for adding menus to a blog site. Some themes come with menus set in specific areas by default. If this is not an option, many themes support the creation of custom menus. This information is generally included in the theme details. To create a custom menu or check for menu support, got Appearance -> Menus and make the desired changes.
Browser compatibility
Many bloggers make the assumption that because a blog theme works well on one browser, it will work the same on all browsers. This assumption can be dangerous. When searching for a theme, pay attention to the browser compatibility and mobile support. Wordpress provides several |"mobile themes" that are specifically smartphone-ready. Additionally, many themes offer the option of enabling or disabling mobile themes on your site if the theme is mobile friendly.[2]
Where to get a theme
How to apply the theme
Notes
References
- Selecting the Perfect Theme for WordPress wpbeginner web. 25 March 2013. Web. 27 April 2013
- 20+ Simple WordPress Blog Themes for Personal W Blogging web. 19 Feb. 2013. Web. 27 April 2013
- Wordpress Themes for Blogs Wordpress. Web. 29 April 2013
- What to Look For in a Wordpress Theme Digital Business Consultancy. 31 Jan. 2013 Web. 25 April 2013