Add a Featured Image

[wp101 video=”featured-image”]

In this tutorial, the instructor demonstrates how to add a featured image—a key visual element that helps set the tone of your content and improves how your post looks on your website and on social media.

1. What Is a Featured Image?

• A featured image is a large, eye-catching image that appears at the top of your post or page.
• It’s often used as the thumbnail when your content is shared on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

2. How to Add a Featured Image

• In the WordPress editor, click the Settings button to open the Document Settings.
• Scroll down to the Featured Image section and click Set Featured Image.
• You can:
  • Upload a new image, or
  • Choose an image from the Media Library.

Once selected, the image is automatically set as the featured image for that post.

3. Previewing the Featured Image

• Click Preview to see how the featured image appears on your site.
• In the default WordPress theme (Twenty Twenty), the image shows up full-width at the top of the post.

4. Using Alternate Templates

• Scroll to the Post Attributes section in the editor.
• Choose between:
  • Default Template
  • Cover Template – displays the featured image in a full-screen, duotone style
  • Full Width Template

Switching templates can drastically change how your content and image are displayed.

5. Theme Behavior May Vary

• Featured images may look different depending on the WordPress theme you’re using.
• Some themes display the image in unique layouts or positions.

Key Takeaway:

Adding a featured image not only enhances the visual appeal of your content but also improves how it’s displayed on social media and in your site’s layout. If your theme supports featured images, it’s a smart idea to include one for every post and page.

In the next video, you’ll likely learn how to further customize your page layout or explore more theme options.