To create a custom template in WordPress, you can follow these steps:

  • Create a New PHP File: Start by creating a new PHP file for your custom template. You can do this in a code editor or using the built-in theme editor in the WordPress admin dashboard.
  • Add Template Header: At the top of your PHP file, add a template header. This header informs WordPress about the template and makes it selectable from the WordPress admin when creating or editing a page.
<?php
/*
Template Name: Custom Template
*/
  • Replace “Custom Template” with the name you want for your template.
  • Write Your Template Code: In your PHP file, you can write the HTML structure and PHP code that defines your custom template. You can use WordPress template tags and functions to dynamically display content.For example:
<?php get_header(); ?>

<div id="primary" class="content-area">
    <main id="main" class="site-main" role="main">
        <?php
        // Start the loop
        while (have_posts()) : the_post();
            // Display the post content
            the_content();
        endwhile;
        ?>
    </main><!-- #main -->
</div><!-- #primary -->

<?php get_footer(); ?>
  1. Save the Template File: Save the PHP file with a unique and descriptive name, such as template-custom.php, in your theme directory.
  2. Use the Template: After saving the template file, you can create or edit a page in the WordPress admin dashboard. In the Page Attributes section, you’ll find a Template dropdown menu. Your new custom template should appear in this menu. Select your custom template from the dropdown and update/publish the page.
  3. Customize and Test: Customize your template further as needed. Test it to ensure it displays content correctly and behaves as expected.

Remember to handle situations gracefully, such as when no content is available or when users encounter errors. Also, ensure your template adheres to WordPress coding standards for better compatibility and maintainability.

That’s it! You’ve created a custom template in WordPress. You can create additional custom templates following the same process as needed.

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