How to Add Featured Images to Your Posts

Featured images (also called post thumbnails) are the main images that represent your posts. They usually appear at the top of the post, on your blog page, and when your post is shared on social media. Adding a featured image helps make your WordPress site more attractive and clickable.

Step 1: Open a Post in the Editor

1. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Go to Posts → All Posts.
3. Click Edit under the post where you want to add a featured image.

Step 2: Locate the Featured Image Settings

In the block editor (Gutenberg), look at the right-hand sidebar. Scroll until you see the Featured Image panel.

Step 3: Upload or Select an Image

• Click Set featured image.
• You’ll be taken to the media library.
• Choose an existing image or upload a new one from your computer.
• Click Set featured image to confirm.

Step 4: Update or Publish the Post

After setting the featured image, click Update (for existing posts) or Publish (for new posts). Your featured image will now display wherever your theme supports it.

Step 5: How Featured Images Are Displayed

Depending on your theme, the featured image may appear in:

• The top of your post content.
• The blog archive or homepage listing.
• Widgets such as “Recent Posts” with thumbnails.
• Social media previews when sharing the post link.

Troubleshooting

• No featured image option? In the editor, click the three-dot menu → Preferences → Panels and enable “Featured Image.”
• Image not showing on the site? Some themes require manual support for featured images. Developers can add this to functions.php:

// Enable featured images in your theme
add_theme_support( 'post-thumbnails' );

Best Practices for Featured Images

• Use high-quality, relevant images to attract readers.
• Keep image sizes optimized (e.g., 1200×630 px works well for social sharing).
• Add descriptive alt text for accessibility and SEO.

Summary

1. Open your post and find the Featured Image panel.
2. Upload or select an image from the media library.
3. Update or publish your post to apply the image.
4. Check how it appears on your blog, archives, and social media.

By adding featured images, you improve the look of your site, encourage clicks, and make your content more shareable.

🚀 New to WordPress? Start with our WordPress Beginner Hub for step-by-step guides and easy tutorials.