People who frequently install and configure WordPress often develop a standard set of plugins. They install these plugins on every new site. They become very familiar with the quirks and functions of their default set. This familiarity is like knowing the back of their hands. It’s a helpful habit for increasing productivity.
I’m always happy to try out something new, but if you have a core selection of plugins, it’s easy to keep track of security issues and monitor the progress of development. It also allows me to construct a well-worn workflow so that WordPress installations can be completed quickly and efficiently.
I know my specific set of plugins very well. I want to share them with you. Some might ask, “Why use X instead of Y?” Please remember that I’m not claiming my choices are the best. I’ve simply found that over the years, they provide almost everything I need. I’m satisfied with a new site’s functionality, SEO potential, and workflows when I use them.
WordPress SEO by Yoast
Many SEO plugins are available. However, WordPress SEO by Joost de Valk offers the perfect balance. It’s both easy to use and packed with features. In my opinion, it uses the most sane defaults, and even SEO beginners can understand most of its features.
W3 Total Cache
Speed is crucial in modern web design. WordPress is more like a Sherman tank than a Ferrari. It can handle anything the web throws at you. However, it’s not naturally fast, like going from 0 to 60 in a few seconds. W3 Total Cache is highly customizable. I appreciate its ability to connect with many content distribution networks.
Simple URLs
As you might expect, Simple URLs is a URL management tool that lets you keep a tight rein on outgoing links.
JetPack
I don’t use everything JetPack has to offer, but I find the comment features, contact form, publicize feature, CSS editor, and push notifications very handy.
SEO Friendly Images
I occasionally forget to add alt tag content to my images, and this plugin helps me make sure I’m not completely missing out on the benefits.
Majestic SEO Dashboard Widget
Majestic SEO’s backlink checker is an awesome tool that every SEO and website owner should at least be aware of. This plugin brings all that majesty right into your WordPress dashboard.
Google Analyticator
Not much needs to be said about this one. It provides a simple way to add the Analytics snippet to your pages and also includes several widgets for displaying analytics data in the admin dashboard.
Pro-Tip For WordPress Plugins
It’s a bit of a chore to install these by searching for each of them in the WordPress dashboard, but there’s a way to make that easier. If you have an account on WordPress.org, you can “favorite” plugins. When you’re installing plugins, you can click on favorites, enter your WordPress.org user name, and it’ll import a list of the plugins you’ve favorited.
You’re probably itching to tell me why I should be using your favorite plugins instead of the ones I’ve listed here, so hit the comments and give us your go-to plugins for WordPress.
