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How to Change Font Size in WordPress: Easy Guide for Begi…

Posted on by William Zheng

Ever felt like your website’s text is too tiny—or just doesn’t pop the way you want it to? The font size on your WordPress site isn’t just about looks; it’s essential for readability, accessibility, and connecting with your audience.

Whether you want bolder headlines or more comfortable body text, knowing how to change font size can transform your site. In this article, you’ll find easy-to-follow steps and tips to make your content stand out.

Related Video

How to Change Font Size in WordPress: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Adjusting your website’s font size can make a dramatic difference to your site’s appearance, readability, and user experience. WordPress gives you various ways to change font sizes—whether you want to tweak a single paragraph or overhaul your entire site’s typography. In this guide, you’ll learn the easiest, most effective ways to change font size in WordPress, along with clear step-by-step instructions for both beginners and experienced users.

Why Changing Font Size Matters

Choosing the right font size improves readability, captures your visitors’ attention, and ensures your site looks professional. Here’s why you should care:

  • Accessibility: Large enough text helps visually impaired users.
  • Aesthetics: Proper sizing enhances your site’s visual design.
  • Brand Consistency: Tailoring font sizes can align your site with your brand voice.

Methods to Change Font Size in WordPress

1. Changing Font Size with the Block Editor (Gutenberg)

WordPress’s default Block Editor (commonly called Gutenberg) makes changing font size straightforward for individual posts and pages.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Open the post or page you want to edit.
  2. Select the block (such as Paragraph, Heading, or List) where you want to adjust the font size.
  3. Locate the block settings panel on the right.
  4. Find the “Typography” or “Font size” option.
  5. Pick a preset size (Small, Normal, Large, Huge) or set a custom size in pixels (e.g., 24px).
  6. Save or update your post.

Tip: You can change individual blocks’ font size without affecting your whole site.

2. Using the Classic Editor

Still using the Classic Editor plugin or older WordPress version? While not as flexible, here’s how to adjust font size:

  1. Open your post or page in the Classic Editor.
  2. Use the Paragraph drop-down to select Heading styles (these are larger by default).
  3. For more customization, switch to the “Text” (HTML) view.
  4. Manually add HTML, such as:
    Your text here

Note: Overusing inline styles can make long-term management harder.

3. Customizing Font Size Sitewide with the Customizer

Need to adjust font sizes globally? Many themes allow font customization via the WordPress Customizer.

Steps:

  1. Go to Appearance > Customize in your dashboard.
  2. Look for sections like “Typography” or “General Settings.”
  3. Change “Base Font Size,” “Heading Font Size,” or similar options as available.
  4. Preview your changes live.
  5. Click Publish when you’re satisfied.

Tip: Some themes restrict typography options on their free version—upgrading to a premium plan often unlocks extra controls.

4. Using a WordPress Plugin

Plugins are a great option if your theme doesn’t offer enough font controls or if you want more visual flexibility—no coding needed!

Popular Plugins to Try:

  • Easy Google Fonts: Adds typography controls into the Customizer.
  • Advanced Editor Tools (TinyMCE Advanced): Enhances block and classic editing, adding easy font size changes.
  • WP Google Fonts: Integrates Google Fonts, lets you adjust size, style, and more.

How to Use a Plugin:

  1. Go to Plugins > Add New from your dashboard.
  2. Search for your chosen font plugin (e.g., Easy Google Fonts).
  3. Install and activate it.
  4. Follow plugin instructions—typically, you’ll find new options under “Appearance” or within the Customizer.

5. Editing Font Size with Custom CSS

CSS is the most powerful way to change font size—sitewide or for specific elements—but requires some technical skill.

Example Steps:

  1. Go to Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS.
  2. Enter your custom CSS, for example:
    css
    p {
    font-size: 18px;
    }
    .site-title {
    font-size: 36px;
    }
  3. Preview the changes to ensure they look right.
  4. Click Publish to make the changes live.

Advantages:

  • Maximum control
  • Style any element as needed

Caution: Always make backups before editing CSS, and if possible, use a child theme to prevent changes from breaking after updates.

6. Changing Heading Font Size

Headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.) are critical for SEO and readability. Adjust heading sizes through:

  • The Block Editor’s typography settings for each heading
  • Theme Customizer (if your theme supports heading size changes)
  • Plugins dedicated to typography
  • Custom CSS, such as:
    css
    h1 { font-size: 36px; }
    h2 { font-size: 28px; }

Benefits of Proper Font Sizing

  • Improved Readability: Makes content easier to scan and digest.
  • Better Accessibility: Meets web standards for users with visual impairments.
  • Stronger SEO: Correct use of headings and sizing helps search engines understand your content structure.
  • Consistency: Gives your site a professional, cohesive look.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

  • Theme Limitations: Some free themes only offer basic typography controls. Solution: Use a plugin or consider a premium theme.
  • Plugin Conflicts: Too many plugins can clash. Only install trusted, essential plugins.
  • Mobile Responsiveness: Font changes may look different on mobile. Always preview your site on different devices.
  • Overriding CSS: Some theme settings may override your custom CSS. Arrange CSS rules for higher priority or consult your theme’s documentation.

Best Practices and Practical Tips

  • Don’t Overdo It: Use 2-3 font sizes for consistency.
  • Follow Accessibility Guidelines: Aim for at least 16px for body text.
  • Preview Regularly: Always check changes on desktop and mobile.
  • Use Rem or Em Units for Flexibility: These units work well with responsive design, e.g., font-size: 1.2rem;
  • Test Site Speed: Overusing font plugins may slow down your site—choose lightweight options.
  • Backup Before Making Major Changes: Especially when editing CSS or theme files.

Cost Considerations

Most font size adjustments are free if you use built-in WordPress controls or popular free plugins. However, some premium themes or typography plugins may charge a one-time fee or subscription for advanced features.

  • Free Options: Block Editor, Customizer (if enabled), free plugins
  • Paid Options: Premium themes, typography plugins, or expert services
  • No Hidden Costs: Font changes typically don’t involve shipping or additional fees

Summary

Changing the font size in WordPress is simple once you know your options. Whether you prefer the built-in Block Editor, theme settings, plugins, or custom CSS, you can tailor your site’s typography to suit your needs. By following best practices, previewing changes, and carefully selecting tools, you’ll create a website that’s readable, stylish, and user-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I change font size for just one piece of text without affecting my whole site?
Yes! With the Block Editor, select the paragraph or heading you want to change and use the “Font size” option in the sidebar. For other editors, use inline CSS like Your text for individual lines.

2. Why don’t I see font size controls in my theme?
Some themes limit typography settings in the Customizer. You can:
– Install a typography plugin for more control.
– Switch to a theme that offers robust font settings.
– Use custom CSS as a backup.

3. Will my font size changes show up correctly on mobile devices?
They should, but always preview your site on various screen sizes. Use responsive units like “em” or “rem” and check how headings, paragraphs, and buttons look on mobile.

4. What’s the best font size for readability?
Experts recommend a minimum of 16px for body text. Headings should be progressively larger (e.g., H1: 32px, H2: 24px). Balance size with your overall site design for optimal readability.

5. Is there a way to revert my changes if something goes wrong?
Yes! If you used the Customizer or a plugin, you can simply undo or reset settings. If you edited CSS, remove or adjust the problematic code. Regularly back up your site to ensure you can restore previous versions if necessary.

With these tips and answers, you’re now well-equipped to confidently manage your WordPress site’s font sizes and significantly improve your site’s look and user experience!

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