Link Clarification

So in trying to add links to my sidebar, I endeavored to follow the advice to add the code: <?php wp_list_bookmarks(); ?> to my theme’s sidebar.php. Problem is that I found that I have no idea how to do this. Didn’t see a way to upload a random piece of code (did upload All in One SEO pretty easily….and thanks for that suggestion) with Filezilla and didn’t see anywhere else to add it. Please walk me through the process.

Meanwhile, I went to Widgets in my WP Dashboard and clicked on Add Blogroll to the right sidebar and it worked!! Hence, I am now also confused as to what the code (above) was meant to do differently…?

Thank you.

PS: Just noticed all my typos…please excuse.

admin – appearance – widgets
add the “Links” widget

Samboll:

Thanks, but this doesn’t address my question. As I mentioned, I apparently did finally just add the links widget (what you’re suggesting) and was asking why I was advised elsewhere to add the code <?php wp_list_bookmarks(); ?> to my theme’s sidebar.php. What’s the difference? And where and how do I add that type of code (where in the admin or do I use FTP)?

you would only insert that code in your theme’s sidebar.php if you chose NOT to use widgets. Some folks that are familiar with code would rather customize the sidebar their own way or have a theme that does not handle widgets.

Thanks. If it’s not too much trouble, exactly where would that code go (where do I go to find the section in which to insert that code)?

it depends where you want it to show up
copy the contents of your theme’s sidebar.php here
explain where on blog you want the bookmarks to show up

Y’know,I realize that this makes sense to you, but I am still not getting the answer I am looking for. I do appreciate your trying. Please keep in mind that I am a beginner and that I am seeking an answer to a basic question. This has now become an academic exercise intended to also help others who are also just starting with WP.

Where do I find this theme sidebar.php and how would I add the <?php wp_list_bookmarks(); ?> code to it? Your caveat that it depends where you want it just further confuses me, especially since I was given earlier advice without this caveat.

On another question, do you know how I’d fix the Contact Form 7 plugin to send messages? Other advice to deactivate other plug-ins makes no sense since I need them. Is there another easy fix?

admin – appearance – editor
select the theme you are using if not already selected
click on sidebar.php on the right
it will load in the editor screen
where you put the code depends on where you want it to show up in your blog’s sidebar

as for the contact form – the reason you deactivate other plugins is to find which one is conflicting with the contact form plugin as you reactivate them one by one

there are other contact forms that likely won’t have a conflict

Thanks so much for your patience, Samboll! Can you recommend some of the forms to check into. I simply wanted an easy way to be contacted for more info while providing me with an email address or return contact info for inquiring prospects. I am beginning to understand that there’s more to consider. Anything effective and free? LOL! Thank you again for sticking with me as I learn.

https://chip.cuccio.us/projects/contact-form-ii/