- Image via Wikipedia
The number of plug-ins available for WordPress is, quite frankly, overwhelming to the basic blogger. The question quickly goes from “which ones do I need” to “do I need them at all.” Figuring out which you do or don’t need may be a matter of taste as much as a matter of functionality. Not sure which plug-in is right for you? Check out the tips and tricks of the most active and savvy WordPress users to get some answers.
There’s a WordPress site out there that is manned by a designer and web developer who loves to share his plug-in ideas with other bloggers. He listed ten WordPress plug-ins worth having. What’s amazing is that people who responded to his tips could easily list another ten to fifteen must-have plug-ins. Tips are a dime a dozen. The trick is finding the time and energy to explore the plug-ins that have been shared.
If something looks interesting, find a site where you can see it in action. Will that feature work for you? If it’s confusing, don’t be afraid to say so as most of these online communities are full of people who would love to share their knowledge with you and help you out. That’s one of the nice things about technology and communication; we can help a stranger very easily, and if feels good to do so.
Some good basic plug-ins that every blog should have are RSS, del.cio.us, Follow URL, Digg This, and Gravatar. Widgets such as Facebook and Twitter are good too. The point of a blog is to get people to read it. Start with plug-ins that help increase readership. Follow with plug-ins that help enhance the functionality and visual appeal of your site. The more interactive it is, the more likely that people will continue to come back.
