How to Start a WordPress Website guide by Mike Savage, New Canaan

Source: Dev.to

Define Your Purpose

The first step is to decide what your website is for. Some people want a personal blog, others want a business site, and some want a place to share ideas or projects. Being clear about your purpose helps guide every decision you make later. Just ask yourself what you want visitors to learn, feel, or do when they land on your site.

Choose a Domain Name and Hosting

Once your purpose is clear, pick a domain name that is simple, easy to remember, and connected to your topic or brand. Your hosting is where your website lives online. Many hosting companies offer one‑click WordPress installation, making setup straightforward.

Install WordPress and Choose a Theme

After you install WordPress, you will be taken to the dashboard. This is where you control everything on your site. Start by choosing a theme. A theme controls how your website looks. There are many free, clean, flexible, and beginner‑friendly themes. Choose one that fits your content rather than one that looks flashy.

Create Core Pages

Spend time setting up your main pages. Most websites need:

• Home page
• About page
• Contact page

If you plan to write regularly, you will also create blog posts. Keep your writing clear and natural, as if you’re explaining your idea to a friend. This approach helps your site feel more human and welcoming.

Essential Plugins

Plugins add features such as contact forms, security, or search‑engine visibility. It’s tempting to install many plugins, but start with just a few essentials. Too many plugins can slow down your site and create confusion. Focus on what you truly need and build from there.

Content Consistency

As you add content, remember that consistency matters more than perfection. Your first posts or pages do not need to be flawless. What matters is that you start and continue improving over time. Writing helpful content, updating your site regularly, and listening to your audience will naturally improve your website.

Design Tips

Design should support your message, not distract from it. Use readable fonts, simple colors, and clear spacing. Visitors should be able to find information easily without feeling overwhelmed. A clean layout builds trust and keeps people engaged longer.

Pre‑Launch Checklist

Before you launch your site, review everything:

• Check for spelling errors
• Test all links
• Ensure the site looks good on both desktop and mobile devices

This final check helps you feel confident when sharing your site with others.

Final Thoughts

Starting a WordPress website is not about technical skill as much as it is about clarity and commitment. If you focus on your purpose, keep things simple, and stay consistent, your website will grow naturally. Every successful online presence started as a simple idea that improved over time. Your WordPress website can follow the same path with patience and care.