WP 101: Themes & Plugins:What are they, and
where doI get them?
Joe Querin – www.joequerin.com
WordCamp Kent - Online – May 31, 2020
@joequerin joecue
joecue

{ Overview }
• Finding Plugins and Themes
• Testing & Trialing
• Questions

{ Plugin vs Theme }
• What is a Plugin?
• Plugins add additional functionality to your
site.
• What is a Theme?
• Themes control the look of your site content,
can also add functionality
• How? - Discuss more in later sessions.

{ Word of Caution }
• On-going debate within the community
• My rule of thumb
(not really mine, since I borrowed the ideas from the community)
• If the functions will create content dependencies, place the
functions in a plugin.
• A content dependency would be a custom post type, custom
fields. Things the site needs to function, without these the site
will break.
• If the functions are more suited for theme needs (custom image
sizes, excerpt length, filter or action that effects content display),
then place those functions in the theme.
• If in doubt, create a plugin

{ Sourcing Plugins & Themes }
• WordPress.org Repository
• Themes
• Themify
• Elegant Themes
• StudioPress
• Plugins
• What are you looking to do?

{ Sourcing Plugins & Themes }
• NEVER EVER search for “Free
WordPress Themes/Plugins”
• Should you feel the need to do this, please
download from reputable sources.
• Run the theme in your development area
first

{ Tips on Finding }
• Wordpress.org
– Active Installs
– Last Updated
– Version Compatible
– Ratings
– Support Forums

{ Plugins }
• What are problem are you looking to
solve?
• What feature do you want to add?
• What plugins do you already have
installed?

{ Plugins }
• Use different search terms
• Look for tutorials
• Look for plugins from authors you are all
ready using plugins/themes from
• Review options in currently installed
plugins

{ Dev Sites }
• Install a local development platform
• WAMP
• Desktop Server
• Local by Flywheel
• Check with your host, a remote
development server may be an option

{ Dev Sites }
• Why?
• Check out new plugins or themes before
installing.
• Will they provide the functionality/features you
need for your site.
• Practice with WP before going live. 

{ Thanks! }
Joe Querin
www.joequerin.com
@joequerin
joecue
joecue