How to Set Page in WordPress as Index

Over 40% of live websites on the internet are built with WordPress. Millions of people use this website builder and content management system each day. Yet many are not familiar with the importance of setting up an index page using WordPress. Having the right index page is crucial for a positive user experience and improving SEO.

Your WordPress website's index page is the first impression visitors get. But how do you set a specific page as your index? This guide will walk you through the process. The steps are easy to follow, even for those with minimal technical background.

We'll also introduce IFTTT and how our free automation platform helps WordPress users take their websites to the next level. With IFTTT you can connect your WordPress website to 1000 different digital tools. Keep your eye out for our Applet bubbles throughout the article, which you can click to get started automating. Join IFTTT for free today!

Top WordPress automations

What is the index page in WordPress?

In WordPress, an index page is essentially your website's homepage. It's the page visitors see first when they land on your site. We'd argue that this is one of the most crucial pages on your whole website, as it should navigate users to the content they are looking for.

By setting an engaging index page, you guide visitors effectively and showcase critical content. WordPress allows you to choose between a dynamic posts page and a static page for your index. This flexibility helps tailor your website to better suit its purpose and your audience's needs. A well-designed index page helps reduce bounce rates, keeping users engaged longer. It acts as a central hub, directing traffic to other crucial parts of your website, thereby enhancing overall user interaction.

Sometimes, WordPress displays the wrong page as your index page by default, so it's a good idea to get to know the settings that control index pages. That way, you can control and revise index pages to keep your visitors flowing.

Static page vs. posts page

When setting your index page, you have two options: a static page or a posts page. A static page remains unchanged unless you update it, ideal for businesses or portfolios. This type of page provides consistency and a controlled layout, perfect for highlighting key information.

Alternatively, a posts page displays the latest blog entries dynamically. This option suits websites that prioritize fresh content, like news sites or blogs.

Make sure to choose a static or a posts page based on your site's goals and the user experience you want to create.

Setting your index page on WordPress

1. Accessing your WordPress dashboard

To set a WordPress page as your index, you first need to access the WordPress dashboard. Begin by logging into your WordPress site. Use your username and password to enter the admin area.

Once logged in, you’ll find the dashboard, your control panel for all things WordPress. From here, you can easily navigate to different settings. It's the hub where you’ll make all necessary changes to your site's configuration.

2. Navigating to reading settings

Once in the WordPress dashboard, focus on the left sidebar. Look for the "Settings" option and hover over it. A drop-down menu will appear.

From the menu, click on "Reading." This section manages your site's front page display. It's a crucial step to set a WordPress page as your index. Here, you'll find options for customizing what visitors see first.

3. Setting your static front page

In the Reading settings, find the "Your homepage displays" section. This feature lets you choose between a static front page or your latest posts. To set a WordPress page as an index, select "A static page."

After selecting this, new options will appear to specify which page will be your homepage. Use the dropdown menu to pick your preferred page. This page becomes the new face of your website, making it crucial for user engagement.

Ensure the selected page aligns with your site's goals. Remember, this page should effectively communicate key messages.

4. Selecting your posts page

If you've chosen a static front page, you can also set a posts page. This is where your latest blog entries will appear.

In the Reading settings, find the option for "Posts page." Choose a page where your latest posts will be displayed. This separates your blog content from your homepage, enhancing site navigation.

Creating a new page for your index

If you haven't made a suitable page for your homepage yet, don't worry. Creating a new page in WordPress is simple. To start, head to your WordPress dashboard and click on "Pages" in the left sidebar.

Next, choose "Add New." This will lead you to the page editor, where you can draft your future homepage. You can add titles, text, images, and other elements.

Analyze the layout and content critically, ensuring they align with your brand's messaging or your personal purpose. A well-chosen page will set the tone for user interactions and enhance visitor engagement. Consider its impact on the first impression, as it will guide user navigation and influence SEO performance.

Also keep in mind the permalink to your index page. Permalinks are the URLs used to link to your content. Optimizing these for your new index page is critical for SEO.

First, access your "Permalink Settings" under the Settings menu in the dashboard. Include your primary keywords in the URL to improve search engine visibility and fill in the meta descriptions and headings too. These elements all play a crucial role in how search engines rank your site.

Once you've customized your page, click "Publish" to make this page live. It can now be set as your index page in the Reading settings.

Boosting your WordPress site with IFTTT

If you're looking to take your WordPress website to the next level, consider leveraging the power of IFTTT. IFTTT, which stands for "If This, Then That," is our free automation service that allows you to connect over 1000 different apps and services to create custom workflows.

With IFTTT, you can automate tasks such as posting new blog articles to social media, syncing data between platforms, and much more. By integrating IFTTT with WordPress, you can streamline your website management and save time on repetitive tasks, allowing you to focus on what matters most: creating great content and growing your online presence.

Getting started with IFTTT is easy, simply:

Create an account: Visit the IFTTT website (https://ifttt.com/) or download the mobile app. Sign up for a new account using your email address or a social media account.

Explore Applets: Once logged in, explore the IFTTT platform to discover pre-made applets. These are ready-to-use automation recipes created by the community.

Create your own Applet: If you want to create your own applet, click on your profile icon and select "Create" from the menu.

Read on to hear our top picks for WordPress Applets with IFTTT

Top website building Applets with IFTTT

Automatically share new posts to a Facebook Page

It's easy to keep your community updated: This Applet will share a link to your new WordPress blog with your Facebook Page.

Archive new posts to an Evernote notebook

Live your life out of Evernote? This Applet will send the content of your new posts there, with the URL — so you can keep everything in one place.

Publish your new videos as WordPress posts.

Grow your audience by cross-posting your videos automatically — this Applet will grab the embed code and post it on WordPress. The title of the blog will be the title of the video.

To enable these Applets and millions more (yes, millions), try IFTTT today for completely free!