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first time need direction

  1. tinacook55
    Member

    This is my first time to wordpress and I want to build a website. I'm confused because I did the sign-up on the wordpress.com site. I checked out the dashboard and couldn't find where I can do a webste from scratch without a template. Then I downloaded wordpress from a website and I don't understand a bit of it!!

    I just want to build a website before I sign-up for upgrades and such. I want to make sure I like it. I have built many many websites so I just wanted to check out your editor platform and I am not having success.

    Please help. Tina Cook [redacted] [redacted email]
    Thank you

    The blog I need help with is tinacook55.wordpress.com.

  2. timethief
    Member

    Please read this comparison do you are clear on the differences between free hosted WordPress.com blogs and WordPress.org installs for self hosting. http://support.wordpress.com/com-vs-org/

    Blogs are post based structures that provide for and encourage interactive communication. Websites are page based structures that operate as a one-way noticeboards.

    A WordPress blog can either be structured as a page based website or its conventional post based blog structure can be retained. That’s why understanding the differences between posts and pages, comprehending the SEO implications of creating a page based structure, and knowing how to use custom menus are key to decision making when selecting a theme, and setting up your WordPress.com blog. http://onecoolsitebloggingtips.com/2010/05/12/better-blogging-at-wordpress-com-pages-and-posts/

    See here for a step by step guide > Using WordPress.com to Create a Website http://en.support.wordpress.com/using-wordpress-to-create-a-website/
    See also http://wpbtips.wordpress.com/2011/12/19/custom-menus/

  3. timethief
    Member

    On one hand, none of the characteristic "blog" features like categories, tags, authors, dates, etc. can be removed from a free hosted WordPress.com blog without purchasing an annually renewable custom design upgrade and doing the required CSS editing.
    http://en.support.wordpress.com/custom-design/
    http://en.support.wordpress.com/custom-design/#frequently-asked-questions
    http://en.support.wordpress.com/custom-design/editing-css/

    On that other hand, one can edit a WordPress.org theme free of charge. That's why I suggested you read this comparison > WordPress.com and WordPress.org: The Differences http://en.support.wordpress.com/com-vs-org/

  4. zandyring
    Happiness Engineer

    Hi Tina,

    I just want to check to see if Timethief's information helped you, or if you had any further questions about the distinction between WordPress.com and WordPress.org?

    Cheers!

  5. raincoaster
    Member

    Given your foundation knowledge, I suggest you start here with no upgrades at all and get comfortable with it before trying to decide about upgrades, self-hosting, or other technical issues. It's easy to start.

  6. timethief
    Member

    I agree with raincoaster.

  7. zandyring
    Happiness Engineer

    I also agree, as it turns out.

    Please feel free to ask any questions you may have!

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