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1. Install WordPress properly.

Many of us, including myself,  have used Fantastico to install WordPress. The problem is that many hosts do not use the latest version of WordPress to install. WordPress is currently in version 2.7, so what good would 2.3 do you? If you are not accustomed to using cPanel, take the time out to explore around. Creating MySQL databases is not as difficult as it seems. It’s quick and easy! Just refer back to this nifty little WordPress installation guide we’re provided with.

2. Know your admin area.

Before you can get to use WordPress effectively, you must know what you’re doing. How many of you knew that WordPress had keyboard shortcuts? WordPress 2.7 has many upgrades from 2.6-2.6.5. Browse around and learn about what does what. You may find something new.

See: Mastering Your WordPress 2.7 Theme and Admin Area: Tips and Tricks

3. Use WordPress as a CMS.

What’s a CMS? CMS simply means content management system. Many of us only see WordPress has a blogging platform but it can be used for so much more. Do you offer content for your visitors? Do you write articles or post photography on your WordPress blog? Learn how to make it much more efficient for you. If you haven’t integrated your WordPress, do so now.

It may take some time depending on how much outside content and pages you have, but the rewards are outstanding. You can easily manage pages and posts inside your WordPress admin area without using any type of FTP program. WordPress is perfect for many types of sites: blogs, portfolios, articles,  online magazines/newspapers, e-shops, and etc. There are many uses for this program so take full advantage of it.  Your content becomes much more organized and easier to manage.

See: Things To Consider When Using WordPress as a CMS
Tips for Using WordPress as a Content Management  System (CMS)
10 Great Website Designs Using WordPress as a CMS
Top 10 WordPress CMS Plugins

4. Customize Your WordPress.

You have your WordPress installed, you know how to use it, you know your function, so how do you make it your own? WordPress has blessed its users with the ability to use themes and plugins to make the system more manageable. With the right WordPress theme and plugins, your site can transform its entire user interface and content management.

Finding or creating WordPress themes is hardly a problem. Be sure the theme you are using fits your purpose and attracts visitors, not distracts them. A good WordPress theme has three things: valid coding, widget compatibility, and plugin compatiblity. If you do not know how to create WordPress themes, simply use a free one. If you want to learn to create them, it’s quite simple! You need to have an open mind and time to learn. It can be frustrating, but as any type of design work, it pays off in the end.

See: 50 Beautiful Free WordPress Themes
How I Learned To Build WordPress Themes
How To Add Sidebars To A WordPress Theme
My WordPress Cheat Sheet

WordPress plugins can make or break your WordPress. They can be very helpful and make things easier for you, but be careful! Some WordPress plugins are outdated or clash with other plugins/themes.  Be sure that you’re going to use your plugins. If you don’t use them, don’t install them or delete them. Having too many plugins can make your WordPress load slowly for visitors. Some are very tempting to use but if you don’t need them, don’t use them. Be sure you install your WordPress plugins safely, read all of the directions, and use them properly. If you don’t know how to modify them, simply don’t.

See: 17 Really Useful WordPress Plugins That Probably Are Essential
10 Killer WordPress Hacks
30 Excellent WordPress Video Tutorials
20 Incredibly Useful Themes and Plugins To Boost Your Admin Area
25 Great WordPress Plugins!
Most Wanted WordPress Hacks (11 New Requests)

5. Keep Your WordPress News Up-To-Date.

WordPress users and developers come up with new features daily. There’s no reason that you shouldn’t be up to date on the latest WordPress news. It keeps you informed, helps you manage your WordPress better, and solves a lot of problems that you may have never known about! Don’t be lazy and only worry about your WordPress whenever there’s an update. Keep in touch with information everyday. Here’s a list of great sites that post WordPress-related tutorials, themes, plugins, and information for you to use:

Fuel Your Creativity
Justin Tadlock
Noupe
Smashing Magazine
Simply WP
Weblog Tools Collection
WordPress Development Updates
WordPress Max
WP Candy
WP Hacks
WP Recipes
WP Snap