How to Start a Blog (Beginner’s Guide)

On February 25, 2026  By newsroom   Topic: Online Business Success

  • Is Blogging Still Worth It?
  • Yes, blogging is relevant in and beyond.
  • Blogs are great for sharing ideas, building communities, and earning income.
  • Success requires consistent quality content, engagement, and promotion.

  • Starting a Blog for Free

  • Platforms: WordPress.com, Blogger, Wix offer free blogs.
  • Limitations: Free blogs often use subdomains (e.g., blogname.wordpress.com), which may seem less professional.
  • Serious bloggers should upgrade to self-hosted blogs for customization and monetization options.

  • Steps to Start a Blog

  • Step 1: Pick a niche you’re passionate about.
  • Step 2: Choose a blogging platform like WordPress.
  • Step 3: Get a custom domain and hosting (e.g., Hostinger).
  • Step 4: Set up WordPress and install themes/plugins.
  • Step 5: Customize your blog design with a theme.
  • Step 6: Write and publish content.
  • Step 7: Optimize your blog for SEO (keywords, meta tags).
  • Step 8: Promote your blog on social media, guest posts, and communities.
  • Step 9: Explore monetization options (ads, affiliate marketing, sponsored posts).

  • Finding a Profitable Niche

  • Research competition using Google and SEO tools.
  • Test profitability by checking if brands advertise in your niche.
  • Explore affiliate marketing opportunities in your niche.

  • Costs and Tools

  • Hosting plans can cost as low as $2.69/month (e.g., Hostinger).
  • Domain registration is free for the first year with some hosting providers.
  • Recommended Plugins: Yoast SEO, MonsterInsights, WP Super Cache, Akismet.

  • Monetization Tips

  • Display ads (e.g., Google AdSense, Mediavine).
  • Affiliate marketing (e.g., Amazon Associates).
  • Sell products or services directly on your blog.
  • Write sponsored posts to promote products/services.

  • Promoting Your Blog

  • Share content on social media and engage with niche communities.
  • Use platforms like Medium or LinkedIn to republish content.
  • Invest in paid ads (Google, Facebook, Instagram).

  • Why Start Blogging?

  • Creativity outlet, self-expression, building expertise.
  • Networking and career growth.
  • Potential for extra income or becoming self-employed.

Start your blog today with a clear plan, consistent effort, and a focus on your audience's needs!


Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.
If you liked all this, consider supporting us by checking out SkillThing DOING Manuals

DOING Manuals


The AI Proof Career

Future-proof your work in the AI age.


31 Days to Escaping Job Search Hell

Escape job search hell right out of college. Get job-ready in 31 days.