WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems (CMS) in the world, thanks to its user-friendly interface, customizability, and robust features. One feature that some users may find helpful, but also distracting at times, is the Distraction-Free Writing mode. If you’re someone who prefers a more traditional editing environment, turning off the distraction-free mode is simple and can help you regain focus while writing or editing your posts.
In this post, we will guide you through the process of disabling the Distraction-Free Writing mode in WordPress, explain its features, and show you how to customize the WordPress editor to best suit your needs.
What is Distraction-Free Writing Mode in WordPress?
Before we dive into how to turn off the distraction-free mode, let’s understand what it is and why it was introduced.
Distraction-Free Writing Mode is a feature in WordPress that provides a full-screen experience for writers. This mode hides all the toolbars, sidebars, and other distracting elements on your screen, allowing you to focus entirely on the content you’re creating. It’s a great option for writers who want a clean, minimalistic environment, but it’s not for everyone.
Why You Might Want to Turn Off Distraction-Free Mode
While the distraction-free mode is perfect for some, there are several reasons why you may want to turn it off:
- Too Much Space: Some users find the full-screen editor too expansive and prefer seeing more elements of the WordPress dashboard.
- Toolbars Hidden: The mode hides the toolbars, so if you frequently use certain tools (like adding media or changing formatting), you may find it inconvenient.
- Multiple Windows: If you like to multitask or compare different sections of a post, the distraction-free mode can be limiting as it doesn’t allow for splitting your view.
Now, let’s go over how you can turn off this feature.
How to Turn Off Distraction-Free Mode in WordPress
Turning off the distraction-free mode is easy, whether you’re writing a new post or editing an existing one. There are several ways to disable this mode, which we’ll explore in detail.
1. Using the WordPress Block Editor (Gutenberg)
If you’re using the new Gutenberg editor (the default editor for WordPress), the process is straightforward.
Step 1: Open Your Post or Page
Navigate to the WordPress dashboard and open the post or page you’re working on. If you haven’t started yet, create a new post.
Step 2: Switch to the Editor Mode
Ensure you are using the Block Editor (Gutenberg), as the Classic Editor might look slightly different.
Step 3: Disable Distraction-Free Mode
- If the editor is in full-screen mode, you’ll notice a small button at the top right of the screen that looks like a square with an arrow inside. Clicking on this will toggle the Distraction-Free mode on and off.
- If you’re currently in the distraction-free mode, the icon will likely be filled. Simply click it to return to the regular editor mode.
Once you disable this, the WordPress interface will return to its standard layout, showing the usual sidebars, toolbars, and other elements of the WordPress editor.
2. Using the Classic Editor
If you’re using the Classic Editor plugin, the steps are very similar but with a slight variation in interface.
Step 1: Open a Post or Page
Go to your WordPress dashboard and either open a new post or edit an existing one.
Step 2: Toggle Distraction-Free Mode
In the Classic Editor, the Distraction-Free Writing mode can be toggled via a button located near the top-right of the editor. It looks like a small icon that resembles a page. Click on this icon to switch between distraction-free and regular modes.
If you want to keep your WordPress editor’s toolbars and interface visible, simply ensure that this mode is off.
3. Using Keyboard Shortcuts
For those who prefer to use keyboard shortcuts to streamline their workflow, WordPress allows you to quickly toggle the distraction-free writing mode.
While in the post or page editor, press Alt + Shift + W to toggle the Distraction-Free mode on and off. This is particularly useful if you switch between modes often.
How to Adjust WordPress Writing Environment to Your Needs
Now that you know how to turn off the distraction-free writing mode, let’s look at how you can customize your writing environment in WordPress to improve your overall experience.
1. Enabling or Disabling the Toolbar
The WordPress toolbar sits at the top of your screen and provides quick access to key features like adding links, media, and changing post formats. If you find it useful, keep it visible; otherwise, you can choose to hide it.
To Hide or Show the Toolbar:
- Go to your WordPress dashboard.
- Navigate to Users > Your Profile.
- Uncheck or check the box labeled Show Toolbar when viewing site.
- Click Update Profile to save the changes.
2. Customizing the Editor Interface
The Gutenberg editor allows you to customize the interface to suit your preferences. You can manage which blocks appear, enable or disable different settings in the editor, and even install plugins to extend its functionality.
To Customize Your Editor:
- Go to Settings > Writing in the WordPress dashboard.
- In the Default Editor for All Users section, you can choose between the Gutenberg editor and the Classic Editor.
- You can also install plugins that offer enhanced customization options for the editor.
3. Using Plugins to Enhance the Editing Experience
There are several plugins available to help improve your writing experience in WordPress. Some plugins add features like:
- Focus Mode: A mode similar to Distraction-Free but with more options.
- TinyMCE Advanced: This plugin allows you to add advanced text formatting options and toolbar buttons to the editor.
- Edit Flow: A plugin designed for editorial teams to improve content collaboration.
You can explore the plugin directory to find tools that enhance your WordPress writing experience further.
Conclusion
Distraction-Free Writing mode in WordPress is a great tool for writers who prefer a minimalist, focus-enhancing environment. However, if you prefer a more traditional editing layout or find the mode too limiting, disabling it is quick and simple. Whether you’re using the Gutenberg Block Editor, Classic Editor, or prefer keyboard shortcuts, WordPress makes it easy to switch between distraction-free and standard editing modes.
By customizing your editor interface, using plugins, and adjusting your settings, you can create an environment that suits your personal workflow and enhances your productivity. Experiment with different settings until you find the perfect balance that works best for you.