when I first started using WordPress I was blown away by the flexibility of widgets.
It was like a whole new world of possibilities opened up—suddenly I could customize every corner of my website.
But then I stumbled upon these “extra sidebar widgets” and I was left scratching my head.
They seemed hidden almost like a secret society of widgetry.
It turns out these widgets are designed to work with the classic editor which let’s be honest is like using a rotary phone in the age of smartphones.
Now the block-based editor is all the rage and while you can still find those old-school widgets around they might not be the best fit for modern website design.
You’ve just learned about the world of classic widgets and their blocky counterparts! 🤯 Now, you’re ready to level up your website game! 🚀
Check out this awesome resource and learn how to master the block editor like a pro!
The Good the Bad and the Extra Sidebar Widgets
You’ve just learned about the world of classic widgets and their blocky counterparts! 🤯 Now, you’re ready to level up your website game! 🚀
Check out this awesome resource and learn how to master the block editor like a pro!
Remember those classic widgets? They were like our old friends—familiar reliable but maybe a little outdated.
The extra sidebar widgets fall into that category.
They add some extra flair to your website but they’re not exactly cutting-edge.
It’s like trying to squeeze a square peg into a round hole.
Now let’s take a closer look at some of these extra sidebar widgets and how they compare to the block-based world:
1. The Classic Widgets and Their Blocky Counterparts
a. The Blog Archives Widget
This widget is a classic—it lets you showcase your blog posts in a neat and tidy list.
But in the age of blocks it’s like listening to a vinyl record on a CD player.
Block-Based Alternative: The “Post Archive” block is a sleek modern way to display your blog posts. It gives you far more control over the layout and appearance so you can create a more visually appealing experience.
b. The Search Widget
The search widget is a staple for any website but it’s kind of like using a landline phone in the age of smartphones.
It’s functional but it lacks the sophistication of the newer options.
Block-Based Alternative: The “Search” block is a more streamlined way to allow visitors to search your site. It can be integrated seamlessly with other blocks so you can create a more aesthetically pleasing search interface.
2. The Hidden Gems: Exploring the Extra Sidebar Widgets
Now let’s talk about the extra sidebar widgets that aren’t readily available—they’re like those hidden treasures you find tucked away in a dusty attic.
These widgets are often associated with plugins and they offer some unique features that might be missing from the standard block library.
a. Social Media Widgets
Remember those old social media widgets that used to clutter up the sidebars of every website? They were like the oversized neon-colored shirts of the internet world.
Block-Based Alternative: Social media blocks are a much more elegant way to incorporate your social media presence into your website. They offer a clean contemporary look and they integrate seamlessly with the block editor.
b. Subscription Forms
These widgets are a lifesaver if you want to grow your email list.
They’re like the friendly doorman of your website welcoming visitors and inviting them to join your community.
Block-Based Alternative: Many plugins offer subscription form blocks that are more customizable and visually appealing than their classic widget counterparts.
3. The Classic Widgets Plugin: The Bridge Between Old and New
If you’re still clinging to the classic widgets you’re not alone.
The “Classic Widgets” plugin is a bridge between the old and the new—it allows you to use those classic widgets even if you’re using the block editor.
Think of it like a vintage car—it might not have all the latest features but it has a certain charm and personality.
4. When to Embrace the Extra Sidebar Widgets
So when should you use these extra sidebar widgets?
- If you’re working with a classic theme that doesn’t support the block editor these widgets might be your only option.
- If you’re using a plugin that relies on these widgets you’ll need to keep them around at least until the plugin developers create block-based alternatives.
But before you dive into the world of extra sidebar widgets ask yourself—do you really need them? In most cases the block editor offers a better more flexible experience.
5. Navigating the World of Widgets: A Few Tips
- Don’t overthink it. Widgets can be simple and straightforward. You don’t need to be a coding wizard to use them.
- Keep it clean. Don’t clutter your website with too many widgets. A few strategically placed widgets can make a big difference.
- Experiment and have fun! There’s no right or wrong way to use widgets. Get creative and find what works best for your website.
Conclusion: Widgets Old and New
So there you have it—the ins and outs of extra sidebar widgets.
While they might be a little old-fashioned they can still be useful in certain situations.
But remember the block editor is the future of WordPress website building and it offers a more flexible and customizable experience.
So don’t be afraid to embrace the new wave of web design and explore the exciting world of block-based widgets.
You’ve just learned about the world of classic widgets and their blocky counterparts! 🤯 Now, you’re ready to level up your website game! 🚀
Check out this awesome resource and learn how to master the block editor like a pro!