Are you a WordPress user looking to transform containers into columns for a more organized and visually appealing website layout? If yes, you’ll want to continue reading this article. We will be giving a step-by-step on how to seamlessly convert from container to column in WordPress to meet your design and content display needs.

Benefits of Converting from Container to Column in WordPress

Before we begin t the step-by-step tutorial, let’s have a quick discussion of what you can gain when you convert to a column layout in WordPress.

● Enhanced Readability

Column layouts make it easier for readers to follow your content as they can naturally progress from one column to the next, similar to reading a newspaper or magazine.

● Improve Visual Appeal

This layout gives a better balance to website design.  It helps distribute content evenly across the screen, preventing long lines of text that can be challenging to read.

● Responsive Design

Column layouts are best to complement a responsive design as to ensure the website looks great on multiple screen sizes; mobile or desktop.

● Efficient Use of Space

With column layouts you can choose to optimize screen space as you go to specify the width and number of columns, thus, visitors are never overwhelmed with content.

● Better Organization

By structuring your content into columns, you can better categorize and present information, making it easier for visitors to find what they’re looking for.

How to Convert from Container to Column in WordPress: Step-By-Step Guide

Regardless of this being a major change, with the right tools and knowledge, converting from container to column in WordPress should be like a walk in the park.

Step #1 Backup your WordPress Website

As industry standard recommends, you should backup our website before effecting any change; especially if it’s a change this significant. Not to suggest that there’s anything likely to go wrong, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

You can either back up your site with plugins like Jetpack Backups, BlogVault, or UpdraftPlus, or you can do it within the Cpanel provided by the hosting provider. While that’s the case, going forward, it’s advised that you set a backup frequency; daily, weekly, or monthly for safety and ethical reasons.

Step #2 Choose a Theme or Page Builder with a Column Feature

Now it’s time to choose what makes your container change to a column; a WordPress theme/page builder that supports columns. You’ll want to explore between pain and free options and choose one that best suits the purpose and objectives you look to achieve with your site. Some of the best options out there include Elementor, Divi, Beaver Builder, and Visual Composer WP Bakery.

Step #3 Install and Activate the WordPress Theme or Page Builder Plugin

Now, after selecting your preferred page builder or plugin, you’ll want to proceed to its installation and activation.

Installation and Activation of WordPress Theme: Step-By-Step Guide

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Go to Appearance > Themes.
3. Click the Add New button.
4. Click the Upload Theme button.
5. Select the theme file that you downloaded and click Install Now.
6. Once the theme is installed, click Activate.

Installation and Activation of WordPress Page Builder

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Go to Plugins > Add New.
3. Search for the page builder that you want to install.
4. Click the Install Now button next to the plugin.
5. Once the plugin is installed, click Activate.

Whether you’re looking to use a theme or page builder, you’ll want to carefully follow the documentation made available, and familiarize yourself with tutorials created by the developers. Also, if you look to use both plugin and page builder, you’ll want to ensure that you’re checking for compatibility issues as well.

Step #4 Select the Container

Now, you want to select a container for your pages and/or posts. Also, if you have pages already, here’s how you know how to convert them to a column-based layout.

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard
2. Navigate to the page or post where you want to implement the column layout
3. Open the page and identify where you want your column-based layout, then decide if you want to create new content in the container or rearrange existing content.
4. If you happen to be on block editor, you’ll want to insert a block that supports columns.

Step #5 Open Block Settings and Configure

Here, you’re looking to access the settings and options related to the block that was chosen for creating columns. To create columns with Gutenberg, open the block editor and add a “Columns” block. Click inside the block to open the settings sidebar, then specify the number of columns, width, and other options. Once you’re happy with the settings, click outside the sidebar to close it and start adding content.

Step #6 Start Adding Content and Publish

Now’s the final stage where you eventually get to use Column in your WordPress for good. Start typing and formatting your text as you see fit, then proceed with other content like images, video widgets, and even custom blocks. When done, preview your changes, make sure all formatting is to your preference, and then proceed to publish.

Conclusion

Converting your WordPress website from a container to a column layout is a strategic move that can enhance readability, improve visual appeal, and make your site more responsive. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully transition to a column-based design and create a more user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing website. Remember to back up your site before making any changes, and choose a theme that supports your desired layout to streamline the process. With a little effort and creativity, you can transform your WordPress site into a well-organized and visually appealing platform for your content.