You may have noticed that your site came with some pre-filled menu options, but it’s not immediately obvious where to edit them since the editor only handles Posts and Pages. Once you know where the option is, it’s actually quite easy!
Step 1: Access Your WordPress Dashboard
Start by logging into your WordPress site. You may need to select the site you want to edit in the upper left-hand corner once you’ve logged in. Once login is complete and you’ve selected a site (if applicable) you’ll be on your Dashboard, which is like the control center of your website. The left-hand side will show a variety of options. For menu modifications, you’ll want to hover over Appearance.
Step 2: Navigate to Menus
Under the Appearance flyout, you’ll see an option labeled Menus. Click on this, and you’ll be taken to the menu editing interface. Here you’ll see a dropdown list with your site’s menus (if any have been created). Select the one you wish to edit, or create a new one by clicking on “create a new menu.”
Step 3: Add or Remove Items
Once you’re in the specific menu you wish to edit, you can easily add or remove items.
- To Add: On the left side of the screen, you’ll see a box labeled “Add menu items.” Here you can choose from pages, posts, custom links, or categories. Select the items you want to add by checking the boxes next to them, then click on “Add to Menu.”
- To Remove: If you need to remove items, simply find them in your menu structure on the right side of the screen. Click the dropdown arrow next to the item name, then select “Remove.”
Step 4: Reorder Menu Items
WordPress also lets you reorder your menu items with a simple drag-and-drop function. Simply click on a menu item and, holding the mouse button down, drag it to its desired location in the menu structure.
Step 5: Save Your Changes
Once you’re satisfied with your edits, remember to click the “Save Menu” button at the top or bottom of the page. This will save your changes and instantly apply them to your live site.
Step 6: Assigning Your Menu
If you’ve created a new menu, don’t forget to assign it to a location on your site. In the “Menu Settings” section, check the location where you want your new menu to appear, such as “Primary Menu.”
And there you have it! By following these steps, you can control the navigation of your WordPress site, tailoring it to your needs and ensuring your visitors can find exactly what they’re looking for.