How To Make A Website For Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide

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As a beginner who’s about to create your first website, you might be feeling a rush of enthusiasm mixed with some nervousness.

Building your first website can seem like an impossible task, but fear not! In this comprehensive guide, you’ll walk through the three main methods of creating websites. You’ll get simple explanations for each method to help you get started. Whether you’re aiming to use non-coding tools like website building platforms, and website CMS’s or even venture into the world of coding, there is something for you.

Go ahead and take your first steps to turning your website dreams into a reality!

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Outline

  1. Understanding the basics
  2. Domain name and hosting
  3. Creating website content
  4. Popular methods of creating websites
  5. Launching and maintaining your website

1. Understanding the Basics

Before you dive into creating your website, it’s essential to grasp the fundamental concepts of web development. Don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple:

What is a Website?

A website is like a virtual space or a digital storefront where you can share information, showcase your ideas, or even run an online business. It’s made up of web pages, which are documents containing text, images, and other elements. It’s accessible through the internet using an address like “https://www.google.com”.

How Does a Website Work?

Websites are hosted on servers, which are powerful computers connected to the internet.

When you type a web address (URL) into your browser, it sends a request to one of these servers. The server thens sends the correct website files back to your browser. Then, your browser displays these files as a web page that you read or interact with.

You can read my guide to get more details on guide on how websites work.

Purpose Of The Website

Before you dive into website creation, it’s crucial to define your website’s.

Consider what you want to achieve with your website. Are you practising web development skills, starting a blog, setting up an online store, showcasing your art, or promoting your business?

Your website’s purpose will guide your decisions on design, content, functionality and the tools you use to create the website.

It will help you navigate the process of creating your website effectively. No need to waste your resources(time, money, opportunities e.t.c.)

Guide to defining the purpose of your website

Choosing the Right Method For Creating Your Website

Many people start creating websites and but never complete them.

To ensure you will finish creating your website, you need to choose a method that fits your goals and skill level. Read through the 3 methods and note down the method that might be the best fit for your situation.

A. Website Building Platforms

Website building platforms are user-friendly, code-free tools that allow you to create a website quickly. They are excellent for beginners with little to no technical experience.

Popular examples include Wix, Weebly, and Squarespace.

Advantages

  • Ease of Use: These platforms offer intuitive drag-and-drop editors, templates, and built-in hosting, making them ideal for beginners.
  • Quick Setup: You can have a functional website up and running within hours.
  • Maintenance: They handle updates and security, so you can focus on content and design.

Considerations

  • Limited Customization: While you can personalize templates, your options may be somewhat restricted compared to other methods.

Verdict: Ideal for those who want a user-friendly, no-coding-required approach.

Guides

  1. Beginner’s Guide to Making a website using Wix website Builder
  2. Guide to Creating a website using Google Sites Website Builder

B. Self-Hosted Website Content Management Systems (CMS)

Website Content Management Systems (CMS) are tools that help you to create, manage, and modify website content without the need for extensive coding knowledge.

They are a middle ground between ease of use and flexibility. They provide a range of themes, templates, and plugins to enhance the website’s functionality and appearance.

Popular CMS options include WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal.

Advantages:

  • Content Management: CMS platforms excel at content creation and management, making them suitable for blogs, news sites, and online publications.
  • Customization: You can add themes and plugins to modify your website’s appearance and functionality.
  • User-Friendly: While there’s a learning curve, they are approachable for those willing to explore.

Considerations:

  • Learning Curve: CMS platforms may require some time to become proficient, especially when you want to customize your site extensively.
  • Maintenance: You’re responsible for updates, security, and hosting, which may require more technical knowledge.

Verdict: Ideal for those who want user-friendly tools for creating websites that offers more control.

C. Coding from Scratch

Custom coding involves writing your website’s code from scratch. It provides the highest level of customization and control. If you have very specific design or functionality needs, coding is the way to go.

But be prepared to invest time and effort in learning web development languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It’s for those who seek complete uniqueness in their website.

Advantages:

  • Complete Control: This method provides the most control and freedom to design your website exactly as you envision it.
  • Unlimited Possibilities: Your creativity is the only limit, and you can integrate complex features and functionalities.

Considerations:

  • Coding Skills: This approach is suitable for those with a strong interest in coding and a willingness to learn HTML, CSS, and potentially JavaScript.
  • Time-Consuming: Developing a website from scratch can be time-intensive, especially for complex projects.
  • Maintenance: You are responsible for all aspects, from hosting to security and updates.

Verdict: Ideal for those looking to create a custom websites using code.

Guide: How To Use coding to create a Website

Take a few minutes and assess which of the 3 approaches best aligns with your vision and resources.

2. Domain Name and Hosting

What is a Domain Name?

A domain name is your website’s unique address on the internet. It’s what people type into their browsers to visit your site (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com). Choosing a memorable and relevant domain name is an important step in creating your online presence.

Choosing a Domain Name

When selecting a domain name, aim for something descriptive and easy to remember. It’s crucial to choose a memorable and relevant name that reflects your brand or content. Here are some more tips for selecting a domain name:

  • Memorability: Choose a name that is easy to remember and spell.
  • Relevance: Ensure that your domain name reflects your website’s purpose.
  • Extension: Consider popular extensions like .com, .org, or .net for wider recognition.
  • Avoid Copyright Issues: Make sure your chosen name isn’t trademarked by someone else.

Once you have a name, you can check for availability and register it through various domain registrars, such as GoDaddy, Namecheap or HostGator.

Read more about domain names

What is Hosting?

Website hosting is like renting space on the internet to store your website’s files. Hosting companies provide servers where your website’s data is stored and made accessible to visitors. You’ll need to select a hosting service to make your site live on the web.

Choosing Your Web Hosting

Web hosting is the service that makes your website accessible to users on the internet.

If you are creating your website using website building platforms, you don’t need to worry about hosting. Hosting is included as part of their packages.

For websites created using CMS and Coding, you need to organize for your own hosting. There are several hosting options available, each catering to different needs:

  1. Shared Hosting: Ideal for beginners and small websites with limited traffic.
  2. VPS (Virtual Private Server) Hosting: Offers more control and resources compared to shared hosting.
  3. Cloud Hosting: Provides scalability and reliability by utilizing multiple servers.

When choosing a hosting provider, look for one that offers reliable uptime, good customer support, and beginner-friendly features like a user-friendly control panel. Some popular hosting providers for beginners include Bluehost, HostGator, and SiteGround.

Once you’ve selected a hosting provider, you’ll need to set up your hosting account and connect it to your domain. This process typically involves updating your domain’s DNS settings to point to your hosting provider’s servers.

3. Creating Website Content

Now that you have your digital space ready, it’s time to think about what you’ll put on it. Content planning is vital for the success of your website. Here’s how to get started:

  • Identify Your Audience: Know who your target audience is. What do they want? Why should they visit your website? What problems can your website solve for them?
  • Content Strategy: Plan what type of content you’ll create, such as articles, videos, or product listings.
  • Keyword Research: Research relevant keywords to help your website appear in search engine results.

By planning your content, you’re setting the stage for engaging and meaningful interactions with your visitors.

Content Creation and Management

With a solid plan in place, it’s time to create and manage your content. Here’s how to go about it:

  • Text Content: Write informative and engaging articles or product descriptions. Keep your writing style clear and concise.
  • Images and Graphics: Use high-quality images and graphics that complement your content. Ensure proper sizing for fast loading times.
  • Multimedia: Consider including videos, podcasts, or infographics to diversify your content.
  • Content Management Systems (CMS): If you’re using a CMS like WordPress, Joomla, or Drupal, these platforms provide user-friendly interfaces for content creation and organization.

Remember that content is the heart of your website. It’s what will attract and retain your audience.

Now, let’s look at how to create websites using the 3 popular methods:

4A. Creating Website Using Website Building Platforms

Website building platforms, often known as website builders, are user-friendly tools designed for beginners and those without coding experience.

They provide a straightforward way to create a website without the need for writing code. Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose a Website Builder

Select a website building platform that suits your needs.

Popular options include Wix, Weebly, Squarespace, and WordPress.com. Each platform offers various templates and features, so explore them to find the one that matches your vision.

2. Sign Up and Choose a Domain

Sign up for an account on your chosen platform.

Many of these services offer free plans with limitations, as well as paid plans with additional features. You can often choose a custom domain (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com) or use a subdomain (e.g., yourwebsite.wixsite.com) provided by the platform.

3. Select a Template

Browse through the platform’s template library and choose one that aligns with your website’s purpose and style. Templates are pre-designed layouts that you can customize to your liking.

4. Customize Your Website

Use the website builder’s drag-and-drop editor to customize your template. You can add text, images, videos, and other content. Most platforms also allow you to adjust colors, fonts, and layout, giving your site a unique look.

5. Add Functionality

Depending on your needs, you can add various features to your website. This might include contact forms, galleries, online stores, or even blog sections. Website builders often offer app stores or plugins for extending functionality.

6. Preview and Publish

Before publishing your website, use the preview feature to see how it will look to your visitors. Once you’re satisfied, hit the “Publish” button. Your website will now be live on the internet.

With website builders, you can create a professional-looking website without writing a single line of code. However, if you desire more control and advanced features, consider moving on to Self-Hosted Content Management Systems (CMS).

4B. Create a Website Using a Self-Hosted Content Management System (CMS)

A self-hosted Content Management System (CMS), such as WordPress.org, Joomla, or Drupal, offers more control and flexibility than website builders. It’s a great choice for those who want to take a more hands-on approach to website creation. Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose a Domain and Hosting

Before anything else, you’ll need a domain (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com) and a web hosting service. Many hosting providers offer one-click CMS installations, which can simplify the process.

2. Install the CMS

After you’ve set up your hosting, install the CMS of your choice. Most hosting providers offer easy-to-follow installation guides for popular CMS options. This step sets up the framework for your website.

3. Select a Theme

CMSs offer a variety of free and premium themes. Choose a theme that suits your website’s purpose and design preferences. You can customize these themes later to match your brand or style.

4. Customize Your Website

The CMS will provide a user-friendly interface for creating and managing content. Use this interface to add pages, posts, images, and other elements to your website. You can format content using a text editor and add features using plugins or extensions.

5. Extend Functionality with Plugins

One of the key advantages of CMSs is the ability to expand your website’s capabilities using plugins or extensions. These allow you to add forms, e-commerce functionality, SEO tools, and more, all without coding.

6. Optimize for SEO and Performance

To ensure your website is discoverable and loads quickly, take time to optimize it. Install SEO plugins, optimize images, and configure caching for better performance.

7. Regularly Update and Back Up

Keep your CMS, themes, and plugins up to date to ensure security and performance. Regularly back up your website to prevent data loss in case of issues.

8. Launch Your Website

Once you’re satisfied with your website, you can make it accessible to the public by configuring your domain settings and ensuring your site is indexed by search engines.

Using a self-hosted CMS gives you the freedom to create a highly customized website, making it suitable for a wide range of projects, from personal blogs to complex e-commerce sites.

However, it may involve a steeper learning curve than website builders, and you’ll be responsible for updates, security, and maintenance.

4C. Create a Website Using Custom Coding

Creating a website from scratch with custom coding is the most advanced and highly flexible approach.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a website using custom coding:

1. Choose Your Technology Stack

Before diving into coding, you’ll need to select a technology stack. This includes the programming languages and frameworks you’ll use. Common choices include:

  • HTML, CSS, JavaScript
  • Backend languages like Python, Ruby, PHP or Node.js
  • Frameworks: Ruby on Rail, Next.js,
  • Static site generators like Hugo, Jekyll, Gatbsy or Astro

2. Plan Your Website

Before writing any code, plan your website’s structure and layout. Sketch the design, create a sitemap, and outline the features you want to implement. This planning phase is crucial for a smooth development process.

3. Design and Content

The next step involves setting up a the website and adding the website design.

For HTML, CSS and Javascript websites, the setup is simple, you just create the files you need and link them correctly.

Start by creating the basic structure of your website using HTML. This markup language defines the elements and layout of your web pages, such as headers, paragraphs, images, and links.

Use Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to style your website. CSS allows you to control the visual design, including fonts, colors, spacing, and layout. You can apply styles globally or to specific elements.

To make your website interactive, use JavaScript. This programming language allows you to create dynamic features like image sliders, forms with validation, and more. You can also use JavaScript frameworks and libraries like React or Vue.js for complex web applications.

Frameworks and static site generators will require some additional setup before you can start adding your website design and content.

To speed up the website development, you can concider getting a website template and them modifying it to fit your own needs.

6. Set Up a Backend

If your website requires data storage, user authentication, or dynamic content, you’ll need a backend. This typically involves setting up a server using a language like Node.js, Ruby on Rails, or Django, and connecting it to a database.

7. Test Your Website

Testing is essential to ensure your website works correctly across different browsers and devices. Check for any bugs, broken links, or design issues.

8. Deploy Your Website

Once you’re satisfied with your website, it’s time to deploy it to a web server. You’ll need a domain name and a hosting to make your site accessible on the internet.

9. Monitor and Maintain

After launching your site, ongoing maintenance is crucial. Regularly update your code, monitor for security issues, and consider optimizing performance for a better user experience.

Creating a website through custom coding offers complete creative freedom, but it requires a strong understanding of programming languages and development principles.

It’s a more complex process compared to website builders or CMSs, but it’s the best choice for those who seek full control over their web projects.

5. Launching and Maintaining Your Website

Launching and maintaining your website is a critical phase in the web development process. It involves ensuring that your site is ready for public access and that it continues to perform well over time. Here are the key steps for both aspects:

Testing Your Website

Before making your website public, thorough testing is essential to catch any issues. Here’s what to do:

  • Browser Compatibility: Test your website on various web browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Internet Explorer) to ensure it looks and functions correctly in all of them.
  • Mobile Responsiveness: Check how your website appears and behaves on different devices, including smartphones and tablets. Responsive design is crucial for a positive user experience.
  • Functionality: Test all features, links, forms, and interactive elements to make sure they work as intended.
  • Performance: Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix to assess your site’s loading speed. Optimize images and scripts to improve performance.
  • Security: Ensure your website is secure by implementing security measures like SSL certificates and updating any software or plugins with security patches.

Launching Your Website

Once you’re confident that your website is error-free and ready for the public, follow these steps to make it live:

  • Domain Configuration: Ensure that your domain name is correctly configured to point to your web hosting server. You may need to update DNS settings.
  • Upload Your Files: If you’ve created your site from scratch, upload your HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other necessary files to your hosting server.
  • Content Management Systems: For CMS-based websites, simply set your website to “live” or “public” mode. Your website is now accessible to the world.
  • Backup: Before launch, create a backup of your website in case anything goes wrong. Regular backups are essential for ongoing maintenance.

Website Maintenance

1. Regular Updates

  • Software: Keep your content management system, themes, plugins, and any other software up to date to ensure security and performance improvements.
  • Content: Regularly update and refresh the content on your website. Stale or outdated information can discourage visitors.

2. Security

  • Security Checks: Continuously monitor your website for security vulnerabilities and apply patches or updates as needed.
  • Backup: Maintain a regular backup schedule to safeguard your website’s data. Backups are crucial for recovery in case of a data loss or security breach.

3. Performance Optimization

  • Speed: Regularly review your website’s performance and make optimizations, such as compressing images, reducing server requests, and using content delivery networks (CDNs) if necessary.
  • SEO: Implement on-page SEO practices to improve your website’s search engine ranking. This includes optimizing meta tags, keywords, and improving site speed.

4. User Experience (UX) Improvements

  • User Feedback: Pay attention to user feedback and make improvements based on user preferences and behavior.
  • Testing: Conduct periodic usability testing to identify and address any issues that might be affecting the user experience.

Maintaining your website is an ongoing process. Regular updates, security checks, and performance optimization are key to ensuring that your website remains a valuable and reliable resource for your audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as you embark on your website creation journey, remember that while the process may seem complex and tedious, it’s also an opportunity for creativity and growth.

Building your online presence is a rewarding endeavor, and your website can serve as a platform to share your passions, ideas, or even launch a business.

No matter which method you choose — website building platforms, CMS, or custom coding — your dedication and effort will lead to success. It’s a journey of continuous learning, where every challenge you encounter is a chance to acquire new skills. Your website can evolve and adapt as you gain experience, so don’t be afraid to start small and expand gradually.

Along the way, there will be moments of frustration, but there will also be moments of great satisfaction when you see your website come to life. Remember that many resources are available to support you, from online communities and tutorials to mentors and professionals.

So, embrace the process, stay curious, and enjoy the adventure of bringing your website to life. Your first website will not only reflect your unique vision but also be a testament to your persistence and creativity. Best of luck in your web development journey!