The WordPress dashboard is the control center for your website. It provides all the tools you need to manage content, customize design, install features, and monitor activity.
Accessing the Dashboard #
- Log in to your site by visiting “yoursite.com/wp-admin”. (If you’re a BLUECARBONS customer, we would’ve changed the admin panel URL for you.)
- Enter your username and password to access the dashboard.
Exploring the Dashboard Layout #
The Left Sidebar
The left sidebar houses all the main sections:
- Posts: Create and manage blog posts.
- Pages: Add or edit static pages like About or Contact.
- Media: Manage your uploaded images, videos, and other files.
- Appearance: Customize your site’s look with themes, widgets, and menus.
- Plugins: Install, activate, or deactivate plugins for extra features.
- Users: Manage team roles and permissions.
- Tools: Access tools for importing/exporting and other maintenance utilities.
- Settings: Configure site-wide options like site title, time zone, and comment preferences.
Dashboard Widgets #
- At a Glance: Shows total posts, pages, and comments for a quick overview.
- Activity: Displays recent site activity, including new posts and comments.
- Quick Draft: Allows jotting down ideas or creating draft posts instantly.
- Additional widgets may appear depending on plugins or theme.
The Top Toolbar #
- The toolbar runs across the top of the dashboard.
- It provides quick links to:
- View your live site
- Add new posts, pages, or media
- Moderate comments
- Account settings (upper right corner)
Customizing Your Dashboard #
- Rearrange widgets by dragging and dropping.
- Use the “Screen Options” tab (top right) to show or hide dashboard elements.
- Install plugins or themes to enhance dashboard capabilities and appearance.
Navigating Efficiently #
- Use the sidebar for all essential administration tasks.
- Refer to the “At a Glance” widget for instant site stats.
- Use the top toolbar for fast access to common actions.
Tips for Beginners #
- Explore each section to understand its function.
- Use the “Help” tab (top right) for page-specific guidance.
- Update plugins and themes regularly to keep your site secure.
Familiarizing yourself with the WordPress dashboard makes it much easier to manage, design, and grow your website.
