WordPress 5 introduced the new block-based editor codenamed Gutenberg. This guide will help you get started with some of the basics of using the new editor.
Note: The block based editor is not on by default for sites created before November 2019. You can enable it at any time.
Getting Started
Settings
Gutenberg Blocks
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did WordPress introduce Gutenberg?
Since its inception, WordPress used a TinyMCE based editor to create posts and pages. The Classic WordPress editor was a simple text window with a few buttons on top for basic formatting options.
While it worked well, users had to learn different approaches to add images, create galleries, embed videos, add tables and other content elements. This learning curve combined with modern web standards made WordPress appear harder to use when compared to other popular website builders like Wix and Squarespace.
The new WordPress block editor introduces a modern streamlined writing experience where each content element is wrapped in a block. You can move these blocks around the editor, change their settings, and create engaging content layouts without writing code.
Do I have to use Gutenberg?
No, not right away. We have installed the Classic Editor plugin which restores the TinyMCE editor you are accustomed to. This is the default on existing UCI Sites. New sites have the block editor on by default as of November 2019. You can enable the block editor (Gutenberg) when you are ready to try it out. However, WordPress has only committed to supporting the Classic Editor through the end of 2021, so it is recommended to start transitioning now.
What is the difference between Gutenberg and blocks?
They are the same thing. Gutenberg is the codename of the new editor. It was used as the name of the standalone plugin before WordPress 5 was released. We use the name here as way of differentiating it from the Classic Editor. With WordPress 5 it is referred to simply as Blocks.
Do I have to build the blocks to simply write some content?
No, you can simply start writing. Each time you start a new paragraph, a new paragraph block will be automatically be created. It can be as simple as that.
What browsers does Gutenberg support?
Gutenberg works in most modern browsers and Internet Explorer 11. A list of supported browsers is available from WordPress.
I’m already using the optional Beaver Builder plugin. Does Gutenberg replace that?
We are phasing out use of Beaver Builder as part of our migration to CampusPress. Anyone who was using it pre-migration, will be converted over to Divi. We recommend using the block editor (Gutenberg) as much as possible.
For more advanced design needs, you can now use Divi. Divi is a theme and a plugin. If you opt to use the Divi theme, the page builder is built in. If you are using a different theme, you can use the Divi plugin for advanced page builder options.
You can use both blocks and Divi on the same site. We do on this site. For simple pages, we use Gutenberg blocks. For more complex pages needing Divi modules or more layout options, we use the Divi Builder.