Featured Images: An Essential Component of Engaging Blog Posts on WordPress

Do you ever find yourself scrolling through a blog post only to feel bored and uninterested? A lack of engaging visuals can be a deterrent for readers, but incorporating featured images can catch their eye and draw them in to read more. Here, we’ll discuss the simple steps to add a featured image to your WordPress post.

Step 1: Selecting the Right Image

Before adding a featured image, it’s crucial to select an image that’s not only relevant but also visually appealing. Uploading an image from your computer or inserting a URL from outside the media library will do the trick.

Step 2: Adding the Featured Image to Your Post

Once you’ve got the perfect image, it’s time to add it to the post editor. Head to the “Featured image” box on the right-hand side of the screen and click “Set featured image.” From there, choose the image you’ve uploaded and click “Set featured image” again.

Step 3: Selecting the Right Image Size

Choosing the right size for your featured image is essential. You’ll need to make sure it fits in with the theme you’re using, so take a look at the documentation to find the recommended image size. Avoid going too small or too large, as it can impact the quality and loading speed of the image.

Step 4: Optimizing the Image

Optimizing the image involves compressing the file without compromising the quality to ensure faster loading speeds. Several plugins like Imagify, WP Smush, or ShortPixel are at your disposal to get the job done. Additionally, don’t forget to assign a descriptive alt tag and title that includes relevant keywords to improve SEO.

Step 5: Previewing the Image

Before publishing the post, click the “Preview” button on the top right-hand corner of the screen to see how the image looks in your post. If you’re not content with the image, select a different one or adjust the size. Once you’re happy, it’s time to hit “Publish.”

Conclusion

Featured images are game-changers when it comes to creating an engaging, visually appealing blog post on WordPress. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be able to implement relevant and appealing images that catch readers’ attention and make them want to read more. Remember always to optimize the image, select the right size, and preview before publishing to ensure the best results.