How to Use the WordPress Block Editor (Gutenberg)

The WordPress Block Editor, commonly called Gutenberg, has been the default WordPress editor since version 5.0. It uses a block-based system where every element — headings, paragraphs, images, buttons — is its own independent block that you can move and style. dotCanada recommends becoming comfortable with Gutenberg as it is built into every WordPress installation.

Understanding Blocks

When you open a post or page to edit it, you are in the Block Editor. Click anywhere in the content area and press the + icon to add a new block. Common blocks include:

• Paragraph — for body text
• Heading — for H2, H3, H4 subheadings
• Image — upload or select from the media library
• List — ordered or unordered
• Quote — for pull quotes
• Buttons — call-to-action links
• Columns — side-by-side content layouts

Editing and Moving Blocks

Click a block to select it. A toolbar appears above it with formatting options. Drag the six-dot handle on the left to reorder blocks. Use the right sidebar to adjust block-level settings like width, background colour, and typography.

Patterns and Templates

The Block Editor includes Patterns — pre-designed combinations of blocks you can insert with one click. Click + and browse the Patterns tab to find layouts for hero sections, testimonials, and more.

For help getting started with the Block Editor on your dotCanada site, contact our support team.