Open In App

How to create WordPress plugin from scratch ?

Improve
Improve
Like Article
Like
Save
Share
Report

WordPress, a versatile and user-friendly Content Management System (CMS), is the backbone of numerous websites ranging from personal blogs to e-commerce sites and creative portfolios. This article aims to guide you through the process of creating a WordPress plugin from scratch.

With over 60 million websites powered by WordPress globally, creating a custom plugin unlocks the potential to enhance functionalities and contribute to the thriving WordPress ecosystem. This article will walk you through how to create a WordPress plugin, enabling you to contribute your code or value to the vast WordPress community.

We’ll start by exploring what WordPress plugins are, why you might want to create one, and what you need to get started on your plugin development journey. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a beginner looking to expand your skills, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to create a WordPress plugin. Let’s dive in!

What are WordPress Plugins?

WordPress plugins are essentially tools that add new features or functionalities to your WordPress website. They are designed to extend the capabilities of WordPress, allowing you to customize your site according to your specific needs.

Think of WordPress plugins as apps for your website. Just like you install apps on your smartphone to add new features or perform specific tasks, you install plugins on your WordPress site for the same purpose.

WordPress plugins are a critical part of the WordPress ecosystem, enabling users to tailor their websites to meet their unique requirements. They make it possible for users with little to no coding knowledge to add complex features to their websites.

Why Create A WordPress Plugin?

Creating a plugin for WordPress can be beneficial for several reasons:

  1. Customization: WordPress Plugins allow you to add specific features or functionalities to your website that may not be available in the core WordPress software or your theme.
  2. Functionality Isolation: By creating a plugin, you can isolate your custom functionality from the theme. This means that you can switch themes without losing or breaking the custom functionality.
  3. Reusability: Once you create a plugin, you can use it on multiple WordPress websites without needing to write the same code again.
  4. Sharing: If you’ve created a useful plugin, you can choose to share it with the WordPress community by submitting it to the WordPress Plugin Directory.
  5. Maintenance: It’s easier to manage, update, and debug your custom functionality when it’s in a plugin, rather than mixed up with your theme or the WordPress core files.

Creating a WordPress plugin allows you to extend the functionality of WordPress in a reusable, maintainable, and modular way.

What Need to Create a WordPress Plugin?

Here is what you should need to make a WordPress module:

  • A word processor: You will require a content tool to compose the module code. The absolute most well-known HTML editors incorporate Notepad++ and Atom.
  • FTP admittance to your facilitating account: In the wake of introducing the content tool, interface it to your FTP server for code alteration. We have an aide on the best way to interface with FTP with Notepad++ assuming you really want help. Then, arrange an FTP customer to transfer the module document to your site. We suggest involving the FileZilla FTP application as it is direct to set up.
  • A functioning WordPress establishment: At last, reorder the module data underneath into your primary module record. Make a point to alter the subtleties such as Plugin Name and Plugin URI as they relate to your module

Also Explore:

Steps To Create WordPress Plugin From Scratch

Creating a WordPress plugin from scratch involves a systematic process that empowers developers to customize and extend the functionalities of their WordPress websites. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential steps to guide you through the seamless creation of your own WordPress plugin.

Step 1: Pick a Plugin Name

The initial phase in WordPress module advancement is to think of an authority name for your module. You’ll need to pick one that is applicable to what the module does, but on the other hand, is remarkable.

WordPress Plugin Name.

Step 2: Make Your Plugin Folder and PHP File

Navigate to wp-content/plugins in your WordPress installation. Establish a new folder, naming it after your plugin using dashes to separate words (e.g., “your-plugin-name”). Create the main PHP file within this folder.

WordPress Plugin Folder

Step 3: Add File Header

In the main plugin file, include a file header with essential details like the plugin name and a brief description. This information is crucial for WordPress to recognize and manage your plugin.

PHP
<?php
  // Plugin Name: hello plugin
  // Description: This is first Plugin.
?>

Step 4: Code To Your Plugin to Add Functions

You’ve set up the essential structure for your module. Be that as it may, it sits idle yet. For that, you’ll have to program your module utilizing the components.

Step 5: Compress Your Plugin

Before you transfer your module to your WordPress site, you’ll have to change it over to the .zip format.

Step 6: Actuate and Run the Plugin on Your WordPress Site

You can add it to your dashboard by navigating to Plugins >> Add New >> Upload Plugin >> Choose File:

Ensure you have a working and modern WordPress establishment. There are multiple ways of refreshing the WordPress centre documents if you have debilitated programmed refreshes. Back up your WordPress documents before refreshing the site to stay away from information misfortune.

Conclusion

Creating a WordPress plugin from scratch allows you to tailor your website to your specific needs, enhancing its functionality and customization. By isolating custom functionalities into plugins, you ensure easy maintenance, reusability, and compatibility with different themes.

The process involves choosing a relevant plugin name, creating the plugin folder and PHP file, adding a file header, coding the desired functions, and finally, compressing and activating the plugin on your WordPress site. This guide serves as a starting point for developers, whether experienced or beginners, to contribute valuable plugins to the WordPress community.

Also Explore:

FAQs on Steps to Create WordPress Plugins From Scratch

How do I choose a suitable name for my WordPress plugin?

When selecting a name, ensure it is relevant to the plugin’s purpose, unique, and doesn’t conflict with existing plugins. Consider using dashes to separate words for better readability.

 Can I use any text editor for writing the plugin code?

Yes, you can use any text editor. Notepad++, Atom, and Visual Studio Code are popular choices. Choose one that you are comfortable with and that supports syntax highlighting for PHP.

 Why is it important to isolate custom functionality in a plugin?

Isolating custom functionality in a plugin allows for better theme switching without losing or breaking features. It also makes maintenance, updates, and debugging more manageable.

How do I compress my plugin before uploading it to my WordPress site?

Before uploading, compress the plugin folder into a.zip file. Most operating systems have built-in compression tools, or you can use third-party tools like WinRAR or 7-Zip.

Can I share my created plugin with the WordPress community?

Absolutely! If you’ve developed a useful plugin, you can share it by submitting it to the WordPress Plugin Directory. This way, other users can benefit from your work, and you contribute to the open-source WordPress ecosystem.



Last Updated : 20 Mar, 2024
Like Article
Save Article
Previous
Next
Share your thoughts in the comments
Similar Reads