How to Create Engaging Blog Posts on WordPress with Gutenberg Blocks

Alice, like many hobby bloggers, wants her WordPress blog to stand out with captivating and engaging content. The Gutenberg block editor, which was introduced in WordPress 5.0, offers a flexible and modern way to build blog posts. It enables Alice to create visually appealing and interactive content without needing extensive technical skills or coding knowledge. This guide will walk Alice through how to make the most out of Gutenberg blocks, empowering her to craft posts that keep her readers coming back for more.

1. Getting Familiar with the Gutenberg Block Editor

When Alice creates or edits a post in WordPress, she is greeted by the Gutenberg block editor. Unlike the classic editor, which resembles a standard text editor, Gutenberg treats each piece of content as a separate “block.” Blocks make it easy to add, rearrange, and customize different elements within a post.

• Main Features: Blocks can be text, images, videos, buttons, tables, and much more. Alice can mix and match different blocks to create unique and engaging posts.
• Accessing Blocks: Alice can add a new block by clicking the “+” button in the top left corner or within the content area where she wants to place the block.

2. Crafting an Eye-Catching Title

Before Alice dives into adding blocks, she needs to write an engaging title. The title appears at the top of the editor and sets the stage for the rest of her post.

• Use Keywords and Create Curiosity: Alice should include relevant keywords for SEO and create curiosity to entice readers to click.
• Use Formatting When Needed: Alice can add a subtitle using the Heading block if she wants to further elaborate on the post’s focus.

3. Using the Paragraph Block for Text Content

The Paragraph block is the most basic block for writing text. Here’s how Alice can make the most of it:

• Formatting Options: Alice can format text as bold, italic, or strikethrough. She can also create links, change alignment, or add drop caps for a stylistic touch.
• Short Paragraphs for Readability: Breaking text into short, digestible paragraphs improves readability and keeps readers engaged.

Tip: Alice can add blocks of text interspersed with images, videos, or other elements to maintain reader interest.

4. Organizing Content with Heading Blocks

Headings play a crucial role in structuring content. They guide readers and help search engines understand the post’s organization.

• Hierarchy Matters: Headings are structured as H1, H2, H3, etc., with H1 usually reserved for the main title. Alice can use H2 for main sections, H3 for subsections, and so on.
• Easy Navigation: Well-structured headings make it easier for readers to skim content and find what they’re looking for.

5. Adding Visual Appeal with Image Blocks

Images break up text and add visual interest. With Gutenberg, adding and customizing images is a breeze.

• Adding an Image Block: Alice can click the “+” button, select the Image block, and upload an image, choose from the Media Library, or add a URL.
• Image Settings: She can adjust alignment, add captions, alt text (important for SEO), and even add links to images.
• Gallery Block for Multiple Images: If Alice wants to display several images, she can use the Gallery block, which offers a more attractive layout than adding images individually.

6. Creating Lists with List Blocks

Lists are great for breaking down information into easily digestible points.

• Bullet or Numbered Lists: Alice can choose between bulleted or numbered lists depending on the type of information she’s presenting.
• Nested Lists: If Alice needs sub-points, she can create nested lists to organize complex information.

Example: If Alice is writing about knitting supplies, she can list the essentials with brief explanations for each.

7. Embedding Videos with Video and Embed Blocks

Videos can enhance the user experience by adding visual and auditory elements to posts.

• Video Block: Alice can upload a video directly or embed one from a URL.
• YouTube and Other Platforms: With the Embed block, Alice can easily add content from YouTube, Vimeo, Instagram, Twitter, and more. All she needs to do is paste the link into the block.

Tip: Videos should be relevant and add value to the content. Alice should avoid adding too many videos that may slow down her page load time.

8. Adding Call-to-Action with Button Blocks

A strong call-to-action (CTA) encourages readers to take specific actions, such as subscribing, downloading, or exploring related content.

• Button Block: Alice can customize the text, color, shape, and link of buttons to match her blog’s style.
• Placement Matters: CTAs are most effective when placed strategically—such as at the end of a post or within sections where engagement is critical.

9. Displaying Quotes and Testimonials with Quote Blocks

Quote blocks can emphasize key points or highlight testimonials.

• Customizing Quotes: Alice can add a simple quote block or a pull quote for extra emphasis.
• Adding Attribution: Including the name of the person quoted (if applicable) adds credibility.

10. Creating Columns and Layouts with Columns Blocks

The Columns block allows Alice to create multi-column layouts, breaking up content and adding visual diversity.

• Customizing Columns: Alice can add different blocks within each column, such as text, images, or buttons.
• Improving Readability: Columns are great for comparing items, creating side-by-side content, or adding structured content sections.

11. Adding Tables for Structured Data

Tables help present data in a clear, organized way.

• Table Block: Alice can create tables with customizable rows and columns, making it easy to present comparisons, pricing tables, or other structured data.
• Styling Options: Basic styling options are available, but Alice can also use plugins or custom CSS for more advanced customization.

12. Engaging Readers with Media and Text Blocks

The Media & Text block allows Alice to add an image or video alongside text in a visually appealing way.

• Text Wrapping Options: She can choose to place media on the left or right side with text wrapping around it.
• Great for Tutorials: This is particularly useful for tutorials, guides, or posts where visuals and explanations go hand-in-hand.

13. Enhancing Interactivity with Custom HTML and Code Blocks

For advanced customization, Alice can use Custom HTML or Code blocks to embed custom scripts or widgets.

• Examples: Embedding maps, custom forms, or third-party widgets is possible using this block.

14. Saving and Reusing Blocks with Block Patterns and Reusable Blocks

Alice can save time by using reusable blocks for content she frequently uses.

• Creating a Reusable Block: Alice can select any block or group of blocks, click the three dots menu, and select Add to Reusable Blocks.
• Block Patterns: WordPress offers predefined layouts called block patterns, making it easy for Alice to create complex layouts quickly.

15. Previewing and Publishing the Post

Before publishing, Alice should:

• Preview the Post: She can preview her post on desktop, tablet, and mobile devices to ensure a good user experience across platforms.
• Check for SEO and Readability: Plugins like Yoast SEO help Alice ensure her post is optimized for search engines.
• Publish or Schedule: Alice can publish immediately or schedule her post for a future date.

Conclusion

Creating engaging blog posts with Gutenberg blocks empowers Alice to present her content creatively and professionally without the need for coding. By mastering different blocks and experimenting with layouts, Alice can keep her readers engaged and make her WordPress blog truly stand out. The Gutenberg block editor offers endless possibilities, making it easier than ever for Alice to share her passion with the world.