If you are following what is hot in the industry, you are aware of the big WordPress 5.0 update or short, “Bebo.”
It took place at the beginning of December 2018, and it is already changing the way how you are setting your new blogs.
Nothing scary about that since WordPress 5.0 makes things even quicker and more straightforward than it did before.
But what is the big update that we were all waiting for?
Gutenberg or block-based editor is the new big thing that you can benefit from greatly. While you are used to the old text window, you can now ease the process of creating your compelling content and take things to an entirely new degree.
First and foremost, the upgrade might happen for you automatically, if you are using a managed WordPress hosting. On the other hand, you need to manually updated to WordPress 5.0 and the amazing and feature-packed bloc-style editor.
Before we proceed, you need to know that you can always go back to the classic text editor if you do not fancy the new, improved editor. Besides, one of the reasons you might want to switch back is due to the plugins you currently use. While the major ones are all updated, some of the less known plugins might not be fully Gutenberg compatible just yet.
Gutenberg gives you the freedom you deserve
Needless to say, you do not need to worry about whether or not the new updated will ruin the look of your enticing website or blog. It simply will not.
However, it is important to know that it is the process that is different, helping your craft unique and out of this world web design hassle-free.
Another thing that needs to be pointed out is the fact how simple and user-friendly WordPress’ new block-based builder is. Sure, if you are used to the old text editor, you might need to undergo some time to get used to it, but it definitely won’t take long.
For all the beginners and first-timers, WordPress 5.0 will ensure a smooth and seamless website launch – with no coding and designing background!
Block, blocks and some more blocks
Beforehand, you needed to use shortcodes or particular techniques to add content to your page or blog post. With the new editor, it simplifies the process by creating a block for different elements you would like to introduce.
It already comes with multiple blocks that will get your going in close to no time. Utilize blocks for images, galleries, videos, quotes, audios, heading, embeds and numerous others. Of course, you can expect new to drop on a regular basis for your convenience.
And if there is something you consider “missing”, chances are, you just need to expand the block and voila, all the additional options and features appear right in front for you. This is especially applicable to the embeds and all the supported assets.
Of course, you do not need to stick to the default settings of each block. You can enhance and adjust it according to your website and make it follow the flow. This could be a simple thing like changing the color, width, opacity and more.
Even widgets and shortcodes now come as blocks, making sure you are free of any inconveniences.
Distraction-free editing
Similar to the classic text editor’s distraction-free writing mode, the new editor also comes with a full-screen mode that gives you a clearer overview of the layout you are about to bring to reality. What it does, it hides the admin sidebar, letting you focus on building the exact design you want first and foremost.
Reusable blocks
Whether you are working on your own projects or helping clients build their dream pages, “Add to reusable blocks” is a very practical feature that will speed things up even further.
That said, if you are creating similar content frequently, you can create custom blocks and append them to your personal reusable blocks collection. Or if working with clients, save them time and effort by forming the must-needed blocks in advance which they can later reuse at free will.
Is the classic text editor still available?
Of course, if you do not feel like switching to Gutenberg just yet, you can continue using the old editor for as long as you want.
If WordPress 5.0 updated automatically for you, and you are not sure what is going on with your WordPress admin section, just navigate to the plugins section and active the Classic editor plugin.
Yes, it is that simple. Even if you would like to test the waters and give the new editor a try, the method of getting the old one back is exactly the same.
What happens with my existing content?
The question that may occur is, “Will the new editor ruin my existing content?” The material that you have published on your page will stay intact.
When accessing the classic text editor of an existing blog post you will find your content in a single block called Classic. There are two paths you can take, a) use the block as is or b) convert it into separate blocks and enjoy the new way of editing, improving and enhancing content.
Twenty Nineteen, WordPress’ new default theme
The new default theme, Twenty Nineteen, was put together exclusively to show and push the powerful new editor and all you can achieve with it. You can now start a WordPress blog swiftly, creating the cleanest and neatest look ever.
Everyone who will visit your page based on the Twenty Nineteen website canvas is guaranteed to enjoy a fantastic, distraction-free experience. It is a super minimal, yet professional-looking theme that alters to your regulations in a small breeze.
What next?
It is all up to your, whether or not you are ready to switch to the new editor. One thing is for sure, you do not have to. You can keep using the old one and only jump on the Gutenberg board when you feel like so.
However, if you are just starting out in the online space, hammering out your first blog or website, kick it off with Gutenberg and see the magic happen.
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