WordPress themes

A WordPress theme is a collection of files compiled together to run alongside the code files in WordPress core package. Theme files are built using the language of PHP, and employ a series of ‘hooks’ and ‘commands’ to work in accordance with WordPress core files to generate a form and function for a website. WordPress in its bare-bones state is rather limited. WordPress users rely on themes to enhance the framework. 

WordPress itself comes with a series of free themes. These themes can be browsed through the Appearance > Themes console, or downloaded via the WordPress.org theme repository and then uploaded manually.

There are also plenty of third-party theme developers that create and sell WordPress themes. Themes can be purchased either directly from the development agencies, such as the case with purchasing the Divi theme from Elegant Themes, or they can be purchased through a theme marketplace or vendor such as Envato Market. 

Each theme comes with a different style and design, and it’s up to the user to decide what needs they want satisfied with their theme. If a WordPress user is operating in a specific niche, selecting a niche theme may be a good idea for them. 

Themes can be added, deleted and managed from the Appearance > Themes console on a WordPress dashboard.

WordPress cannot exist without a theme. A theme offers direction in terms of the look and feel of the site and how it functions. The theme will also take care of the finer details, including:

• Layout
• Type
• Colour
• Widget set up
• Page structure or templates 
• Blog styles
• And similar