To get started, it’s important to understand that the front page of a WordPress website typically displays your most recent posts. However, WordPress allows you to change your front page to a static page or any other view based on your needs.
Steps to Change Your Front Page
Step 1: Create a Static Page
First, you need to create a new page that will become your new front page. From your WordPress dashboard, go to Pages > Add New. You can name this page “Home” or any other name that suits your preferences. Publish your new page once you’re done.
Step 2: Create a Blog Page
In case you still want to keep your posts on your website, you will need to create a new page where they will be displayed. Proceed as above by going to Pages > Add New. You might name this page “Blog” or “Latest Posts”, and then click Publish.
Step 3: Set Your Front Page and Blog Page
After creating your pages, go to Settings > Reading. Under “Your Homepage Displays”, click on the A static page (select below) radio button. For the “Homepage” dropbox, select the “Home” page you created in Step 1.
If you have a “Blog” page created in Step 2, select it for “Posts page”. Don’t forget to Save Changes.
Step 4: Customize Your Front Page (Optional)
Customizing your front page lets you create a first impression that fits perfectly with your brand. To do this, head over to Appearance > Customize. Depending on your theme, you may have a host of customization options such as a header image, colors, site identity, background image, etc.
Using a Page Builder to Customize Your Front Page
If you want more control over your front page design, using a page builder can take you there. Elementor and Beaver Builder are among the most popular page builders. Elementor is a plugin that allows you to create custom layouts for your themes. With a drag and drop interface, you can easily place elements onto your page.
Step 1: Install a Page Builder
From your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New. Search for your chosen page builder (e.g., Elementor), install and then activate.
Step 2: Create and Customize Your Front Page
Return to Pages > All Pages, and click on Edit under your “Home”. Now you can start customizing with your page builder.
Remember, your front page should connect with your visitors. Media, texts, and forms should be carefully placed to retain your audience.
Conclusion
Changing your front page in WordPress can make a significant difference in how visitors perceive your website. Every change should be strategic, targeting improved user experience.
Useful Plugins
Finally, there are numerous plugins that can add functionality to your static front page, such as SEO (search engine optimization) plugins. A highly recommended SEO plugin is Yoast SEO, which you can download from https://yoast.com/wordpress/plugins/seo/.