Key takeaways
- The block editor builds content from blocks — paragraphs, headings, images, lists, buttons, columns.
- Learn the shortcuts (
/to add blocks,Ctrl+Shift+Dto duplicate) and use patterns and reusable (synced) patterns to save time. - Structure content properly — real headings, lists and tables — for SEO and accessibility.
Since WordPress 5.0, the block editor (originally called Gutenberg) has replaced the classic editor. It’s faster and more flexible than many people realise, and for most content you don’t need a page builder at all. Here’s how to use it efficiently.
The essentials#
| Action | How |
|---|---|
| Add a block | Type / then the block name (e.g. /heading, /table) |
| Change heading level | Select heading → toolbar H2/H3 dropdown |
| Move blocks | Up/down arrows in the toolbar, or drag the handle |
| Duplicate | Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + D |
| See document structure | List View (top toolbar) and the “Details” info panel |
| Edit HTML of one block | Block options (⋮) → Edit as HTML |
| Paste from Google Docs/Word | Paste directly — formatting converts to blocks |
Blocks every blogger should master#
- Heading: structure your article with H2 and H3 — this theme turns them into the table of contents. See headings and lists.
- List: ordered for steps, unordered for features.
- Table: enable the header section for comparisons — see tables guide.
- Image: always add alt text in the sidebar; choose the right size.
- Buttons: for calls to action.
- Details: collapsible sections for FAQs.
- Group, Columns, Row, Stack: layout without a page builder.
- Custom HTML: for embeds and special components.
Patterns: build once, reuse forever#
- Patterns are pre-designed groups of blocks (hero sections, CTAs, pricing tables) you insert and edit.
- Synced patterns (formerly reusable blocks) update everywhere when edited — ideal for a CTA box used in many posts.
- Create your own: select blocks → ⋮ → Create pattern.
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Using this theme’s content styles#
In a Custom HTML block or via “Edit as HTML”, you can use the theme’s built-in components:
<div class="ikp-tldr"><p>Key takeaways</p><ul><li>…</li></ul></div>
<div class="ikp-callout ikp-callout--tip"><strong>Tip</strong> …</div>
<ul class="ikp-checklist"><li>…</li></ul>
<ol class="ikp-steps"><li>…</li></ol>
<section class="ikp-faq"><h2>FAQ</h2><h3>Question?</h3><p>Answer.</p></section>The FAQ section automatically generates FAQPage structured data. You can also add a CSS class to any block under Advanced → Additional CSS class(es), e.g. ikp-checklist on a List block.
SEO tips inside the editor#
- Write the excerpt (Post sidebar → Excerpt): it becomes the article lead and default meta description.
- Set a featured image (1200×630 works well for social sharing).
- Fill in the SEO panel below the editor: SEO title, meta description and focus keyword.
- Add internal links with
Ctrl/Cmd + K— type to search your own posts. - Check the outline in List View before publishing.
Block editor vs page builders#
Page builders offer more visual control but add weight and lock-in. For blogs and most business pages, the block editor with a good theme is faster and future-proof. Use builders only where you truly need complex marketing layouts.
Block editor FAQ#
Can I go back to the classic editor?#
The Classic Editor plugin still exists, but the block editor is where WordPress development is focused. It’s worth learning.
Why does my pasted content look messy?#
Hidden formatting from Word or Docs. Paste as plain text (Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + V) and format with blocks.
Are blocks bad for SEO?#
No. Core blocks output clean HTML. Problems come only from heavy third-party block plugins.