Learning How to Make Websites

I've always found the best way to learn is by doing, so I'm going to walk you through the process I follow to build a simple website or blog. This guide will show you how to make your own website in just a few steps.

Step 1: Register a Domain Name

First things first, register a domain name. There are hundreds, if not thousands of domain registrars out there most of who will charge you about $10 per year for a.com domain name. You should consider a country specific domain name such as.com.au (Australia),.co.uk (UK), if your website is geographically focused. In other words, if you're a bricks and mortar business servicing local customers, then use a country specific domain name. If you're selling a digital product that could attract a global audience, then go with a.com

Step 2: Purchase Website Hosting

Your website will need somewhere to live. A good hosting service will provide you with great support and ensure your website stays live on the web 24/7. Go with a reputable website hosting provider and expect to pay about $10 per month. Make sure you buy hosting that uses what's called cPanels which will help you manage your domain settings with ease.

Step 3: Install WordPress

Once you've purchased your hosting account, you should receive login details to your cPanels account. Login and find the icon called Fantastico. Click on the Fantastic icon then install WordPress. WordPress is one of the most popular web publishing platforms and will give you the ability to easily manage and design your website.

Step 4: Configure WordPress

Out of the box, WordPress is good, but there are some plugins you can install to make it great. Some you might want to install include: All in one SEO, pageMash, Akismet and Contact Form.

Step 5: Choose a Theme

The great thing about learning how to make websites is that there are laterally 1000's of WordPress themes to help you quickly setup a good looking site. Don't worry if you don't like the first one you choose, you can always change the theme. I recommend buying a premium WordPress theme as most premium theme developers will provide support. They also tend to be of higher quality than the free themes.

Step 6: Setup Your Pages

If you're developing a business website, then you should add the following pages:

• About (already added by default when you install WordPress)
• Products/Services (depending on your business)
• Blog (Call this News if you prefer)
• Contact Us (contact details)

Step 7: Add Your Content

For many, this will be the most difficult step in the whole process. No everyone likes writing, but here are some simple guidelines when you're writing content to add to the areas listed above. Make sure you cover the following points:

• Who are you (Home page and about section)
• What do you do (about section and products/services area)
• When do you do it (trading hours)
• Where are you based (contact details)
• How do you do business (products/services)
• Why (what makes you so good - about us section)

That's it! You've made your own website. The best thing you can do now is to keep adding content to the news area. Fill it with industry related news or new products you're selling.

Luke Molly has helped 100's of small businesses build and develop websites. Although he no longer builds websites for clients, he teaches others how to make websites with his guide.