How to Change Permalink in WordPress?
As a WordPress user, you may have noticed that the default permalink structure in WordPress can be quite long and confusing. The good news is that you can easily change it to a more user-friendly and SEO-friendly structure. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to change permalink in WordPress.
Why Change Permalink in WordPress?
Before we dive into the process of changing the permalink, let’s first understand why it’s important. The default permalink structure in WordPress is often lengthy and includes a combination of the post ID, post title, and date. This can make it difficult for users to remember and share your content, which can negatively impact your website’s SEO. Changing the permalink can help to make it shorter, more descriptive, and more memorable, making it easier for users to share and find your content.
How to Change Permalink in WordPress?
Method 1: Changing Permalink through Settings
The first method to change permalink in WordPress is through the settings page. Here’s how:
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to Settings > Permalinks.
- Click on the Custom Structure tab.
- In the custom structure field, enter your desired permalink structure. For example,
/%category%/%postname%. - Click Save Changes.
Method 2: Changing Permalink through Theme Settings
Another way to change permalink in WordPress is through your theme’s settings. Here’s how:
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to Appearance > Theme Settings (or Customize depending on your theme).
- Look for the Permalinks or URL Settings section.
- Make changes to the permalink structure as desired.
- Click Save Changes.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when changing your permalink structure:
- Use keywords: Use relevant keywords in your permalink structure to improve your post’s SEO.
- Keep it short: Keep your permalink structure short and sweet to make it easy to remember and share.
- Use dashes: Use dashes to separate words in your permalink structure for better readability.
- Avoid special characters: Avoid using special characters like
! @ # $etc. in your permalink structure.
Common Permalink Structures
Here are some common permalink structures you can use:
| Structure | Description |
|---|---|
/%category%/%postname% |
This is a simple and straightforward structure that uses the category and post name. |
/%year%/%monthnum%/%day%/%postname% |
This structure uses the year, month, and day to create a more customizable date-based permalink. |
/%post_id% |
This structure uses the post ID, which is not recommended as it’s not user-friendly. |
Conclusion
Changing the permalink in WordPress is a relatively simple process that can have a significant impact on your website’s SEO and user experience. By following the methods and tips outlined in this article, you can create a more user-friendly and SEO-friendly permalink structure that will make your content more discoverable and shareable. Remember to keep it short, sweet, and descriptive, and you’ll be on your way to improving your website’s online presence.