Step 1: Introduction to Plugin Development

What is a Custom Plugin? 🧩

A custom WordPress plugin is a small piece of software that adds new functionality to your WordPress site without modifying core files.

Think of WordPress as a plain burger 🍔—good, but kinda basic. A custom plugin is like adding extra toppings (cheese, bacon, jalapeños 🌶️) to make it unique!

When Should You Build a Custom Plugin? 🎯

Not every problem requires a custom plugin. But you should consider building one when:

✅ You need a feature that doesn’t exist in the plugin directory.

✅ You want a lightweight alternative to bloated plugins.

✅ You need custom functionality for your specific business needs.

✅ You’re developing a plugin for your own project or clients.

Tools & Setup for Development 🛠️

Before you start coding, you need the right tools.

🔹 Essential Tools:

• Code Editor – VS Code, Sublime Text, or PHPStorm.
• Local Development Environment – XAMPP, LocalWP, or Docker.
• WordPress Installed – Either locally or on a test server.
• Basic Knowledge of PHP & WordPress Hooks – A must-have!

🔹 Optional But Useful:

• WP CLI – Manage WordPress from the command line.
• Debugging Plugins – Query Monitor or Debug Bar.
• Git & GitHub – Version control for your plugin.