If you’ve used WordPress for some time, you likely came across the term “shortcode.” Shortcodes are simple statements used within the WordPress content editor, widgets, or in select themes which carry out macro orders. In other words, shortcodes allow WordPress users to carry out sometimes complicated tasks in simple ways. A good rule of thumb is shortcode = shortcut.
When Were Shortcodes Introduced
What Does a Shortcode Look Like
One of the most common core WordPress shortcodes is the [gallery]. Adding [gallery] to your posts and pages automatically displays all images uploaded in a gallery style.
In the content editor it will look like this:
[div class=”example”][gallery][end-div]
But on the public website it will show all related images like this:
As you can see, you can save a lot of time with the proper use of shortcodes.
Where You Can Go To Learn More
You can catch up on more examples of the WordPress Shortcode API or review the core WordPress shortcodes. Some of the core shortcodes are only available to wordpress.com users rather than wordpress.org users. The most important thing you can do to learn is try out some of these shortcodes yourself and see what you can accomplish.