This document discusses WordPress themes and plugins. It defines plugins as adding additional functionality to a site, while themes control the look of site content and can also add functionality. The document provides tips on finding reputable themes and plugins from the WordPress repository and trusted developers. It recommends testing new themes and plugins on a development site before installing them live.

1. 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

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

3. { 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.

4. { 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

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

6. { 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

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

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

9. { 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

10. { 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

11. { 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. 

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