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The Beginner's Guide to Ghost

Maryam Taheri Last updated: March 27, 2024 · 3 min read

If you are in search of a blogging platform that is simple and easy to get started with, Ghost is it. This open-source blogging system is known for allowing users to focus on writing posts rather than worrying about the complex details that come with some platforms. Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to the Ghost blogging platform, and here’s why.

What Makes Ghost So Simple?

If you are tired of fiddling with setting after setting on other blogging platforms, Ghost will feel like a breath of fresh air. That’s because its main purpose is to let you just blog without having to worry about complicated formatting issues or writing your own HTML markup. In fact,  the Ghost blogging platform uses Markdown, which allows you to immediately get a glimpse of how your post will appear once the HTML is rendered.
Of course, if you feel the need to, you can customize Ghost to your specifications. Since it is open source, this system allows you to create your own themes and plugins. So whether you are a new or advanced user of blogging platforms, Ghost should meet your needs.

Tips on Getting Started

Setting Up Hosting:

This blogging platform was constructed in JavaScript using Node.js. This means it is not compatible with the typical shared web host that many people have with GoDaddy or Bluehost. The good news is that one of the ways to get Ghost is to use a virtual private server, or VPS.
DigitalOcean is one option for a VPS that works well for Ghost, and its instructions should help you get your new blog set up. But in the near future, Ghost plans to release a hosted platform, and of course, other hosting companies will likely follow suit by eventually supporting Node.js. technology.

Adding Pictures:

You will find that adding images is about as easy as adding text to your blogs on Ghost. According to Mashable, you can add a picture by typing ![ ] and a draggable image placeholder should show up in the preview area.

Adding Social Widgets:

According to Search Engine Watch, the Ghost blogging platform makes it easy for you to add social buttons to your blog with the help of sites like AddThis. If you want readers to share and follow your content, these widgets will make it easy.

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Have you tried the Ghost blogging platform yet? If so, what’s your favorite feature so far?
 

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Maryam Taheri

I'm a recent graduate of the University of San Francisco with a degree in Biology and a passion for the creative arts. I love building websites, trying new things, and I have a passion for social media.

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